Today, Google announced its new Chromecast with Google TV, offering consumers a new affordable option to fulfill their streaming needs. While the device may not have been on your radar initially, you may find renewed interest in the device as we now know that it has a bootloader that can be unlocked by going into the options.
In accordance AFTV news, while going through the ins and outs of the new Chromecast with Google TV, the publication discovered that the device’s bootloader could be unlocked. The best part is that it doesn’t require any complicated steps, you just go into the developer options and toggle the OEM unlock feature, enabling the option to unlock the bootloader. This comes as a bit of a surprise because the older Chromecast with Google TV (4K) that came out in 2020 does not have the same option. Instead, users had to rely on an exploit, and going this route wasn’t easy, but it could be done if the user had time and a little patience.
As standard, the new Chromecast with Google TV offers access to popular streaming services and thousands of apps. Due to its price, the model only supports HD quality, which means it does not have 4K capabilities and also lacks Dolby Atmos sound. But in exchange, Google can price it lower, offering it for just $29.99, which is a pretty good deal. Although some of the original Chromecast devices relied on a connection to a smartphone, the new model can be used as a standalone device thanks to its Google TV. Furthermore, setup is easy and the remote control offers Google Assistant support.
As for unlocking the bootloader, since this is a relatively new device, it will be interesting to see what kind of things will be conjured up by the community. One thing to note, and as pointed out by AFTV news, is that the bootloader option might just be a bug and it might be corrected in a future update. This update could come over the air or it could come directly from the manufacturer, meaning if this gets patched you could be left scrambling for older stock. So if you are really interested, it might be a good idea to buy one as soon as possible. If this doesn’t work for you and you’re looking for other streaming options, please check out our guide to the best Android TV boxes and sticks you can buy in 2022.
Google Chromecast with Google TV (HD)
Google’s latest streaming device comes at a price of just $29.99.
Source: AFTV news
Via: Mishaal Rahman (Twitter)
