Google has already been vastly successful with its cheap $35 Chromecast media streamer but it now has its eyes set on taking a bite out of Apple’s AirPlay pie. The Mountain View-based Internet giant today announced Cast for Audio, which would enable users to play audio from their devices directly to compatible speakers by touching a button. Also Read - YouTube begins testing offline video downloads feature for desktop: How to enable
Google Cast for Audio will work across devices including Android and iOS smartphones and tablets or the Internet via Chrome browser. The system works similarly to Chromecast where users will have to press/click on the cast button to stream audio content via apps on to compatible speakers. Also Read - iQOO Z5 5G launched globally, slated to launch in India on September 27
One big difference between AirPlay and Cast for Audio is that Google’s solution won’t transfer audio from the device to the speaker. Instead it will stream audio directly from the cloud to the speaker, ensuring there is no loss in quality. Also Read - Redmi Smart TV 32-inch, 43-inch with Android 11 launched in India, price starts at Rs 15,999
Google is working with speaker manufacturers to come up with Google Cast Ready speakers. The first partners include Sony, LG and Heos by Denon. Google says it will have more hardware brands joining later this year and has already roped in chip makers Broadcom, Marvell, MediaTek and system integrator Libre Wireless.
