It looks like the next version of Google’s Chromecast — which could be revealed at I/O 2018 later this week — will feature Bluetooth support, unlike the last two iterations of the streaming device.
A revamped second-generation Chomecast has appeared on the FCC’s website, according to 9to5Google. The listing indicates the streaming stick now features 2.4Ghz Bluetooth support, along with legacy Bluetooth low energy functionality.
This means that the next Chromecast will likely be compatible with gamepads, external remotes and more importantly, Bluetooth audio devices — including external Bluetooth compatible speakers.
“For clarity, devices bearing FCC ID A4RNC2-6A5 will not receive the software update to enable legacy Bluetooth operations,” reads an excerpt of the filing sent to the FCC by Google.
Apart from this change, the new Chromecast seems to be identical to the version of the device that launched back in 2015. In 2016 Google released a 4K compatible version of its streaming stick called the Chromecast Ultra.
An Android-branded TV stick that features a Chromecast-inspired design also leaked a few weeks ago. It’s expected that we’ll likely get our first glimpse of this device at I/O this week.
Source: FCC Via: 9to5Google
