The new Google Chromecast Audio is a streaming device like the Chromecast 2, but one designed specifically for audio, as its name suggests. It makes the speakers in your home smarter – just as Chromecast helps TV sets become smarter – by adding the ability to play music directly over a wireless connection.
Description and Setup
Chromecast Audio shows off similar circular design as the second-generation Chromecast, except that the latter comes with an HDMI cable attached. It offers a cheaper means of keeping up with the times these days when gadgets are becoming smarter – and, of course, more expensive – and we are beginning to see increasing offerings of Wi-Fi speakers.
This small device lets you transform those ‘archaic’ speakers in your home to ones with Wi-Fi streaming compatibility.
The setup procedure for Google Chromecast Audio is similar to that of its streaming video cousin. You download the Chromecast app and plug the device to a speaker or receiver using the 3.5mm audio cable supplied with the device.
You will also need to connect the audio streamer to a power source. Your phone or laptop and Google Chromecast Audio are then connected to the same Wi-Fi network to enable streaming.
All-Round Fun
Once you have set up the streamer, you can play music through the associated speaker from anywhere within the Wi-Fi network’s range. Play, pause, volume and other controls are executed on the paired smartphone or computer.
If their devices are also paired with Google Chromecast Audio, your family members are friend will also be able to join the fun by adding their songs into the mix.
Additional Information
Multi-room audio support is expected on the Google Chromecast Audio before the end of the year – this feature will enable you play the same music through all the speakers in your home. After prolonged hesitation, Google will finally allow streaming from Spotify.
You will also be able to play music from Google Play Music, Pandora and all other apps that support audio casting. Google Chromecast Audio, which also has RCA and optical audio support, will work with Android and iOS devices as well as Chrome OS, Windows and Mac OS X computers.
Pricing & Availability
Google Chromecast Audio is now available in 17 countries (Nigeria is not one of them). Google Chromecast Audio price is set at $35 (7,000 Naira).
