Exclusive: This is Google’s Android TV dongle, remote, and new UI - XDA Developers

Google is preparing to launch new hardware this summer, including at least a new smartphone and a streaming media device.

The latter device is rumored to be the successor to the Chromecast Ultra but is expected to come with a dedicated remote and Android TV software onboard.

This rumored Google Android TV dongle may launch under Google’s Nest branding and has been described as looking similar to Google’s current Chromecast device.

Now, we have obtained renders of what may be Google’s upcoming Android TV dongle, code-named “Sabrina.”.

In early March, Stephen Hall from 9to5Google first revealed Google’s plans to launch a new streaming media device based on Android TV with the code-name “Sabrina”.

The report mentioned that Google’s new device will come with a dedicated remote, which is in contrast to earlier Chromecast streaming media devices that were operated entirely from a user’s smartphone.

Although the front of the remote wasn’t visible in the FCC filing, 9to5Google reported that the new remote essentially looks like a cross between the Daydream View and Apple TV remotes and will feature a microphone, Google Assistant button, and likely an IR blaster to make it programmable.

At the same time, Stephen Hall from 9to5Google floated the idea that Android TV may be rebranded to Google TV, though it’s unclear at this point if Google has indeed settled on a name for its new streaming media device.

While I am unfortunately unable to share any details on the branding, pricing, or availability of Google’s Android TV dongle, I can share what are likely official renders of the device.

Google’s upcoming streaming media device code-named “Sabrina” has an oblong shape, unlike the Chromecast Ultra’s rounded shape.

The marketing video only shows the top half of the remote which reveals some of its controls including the rumored Google Assistant button.

After all, the Pixel 4a is now rumored to launch in July and Google’s big Android 11 Beta Launch Show no longer has a confirmed date.

In contrast, NVIDIA’s SHIELD TV streaming stick costs $149, although that device is likely more powerful than Google’s upcoming offering.

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