
Google just took the streaming world by storm by lifting the veil off its new Google TV Streamer, which aims to dethrone Chromecast while widening its reach into smart homes and offering support to pair Matter devices directly to the set-top box.
While local Matter control necessitates a Thread radio —which is rarely found in streaming devices— it's not required on your TV's home screen to control smart home devices.
This self-reliance could be attributed to Google bringing one of its newest features to all Google TV devices.
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The most significant slew of changes coming to the Google TV platform with the new Google TV Streamer, an official Google blog stated that Google TV Streamer's "Home Hub" feature will begin rolling out to all existing Google TV devices today.
Integrated into the Quick Settings menu, the new section would pop up a new Google Home tile that is clickable to view controls for controlling smart lights, thermostats, and other devices connected to your Google Home account.
Moreover, it will also let users access their connected cameras directly from Google TV, ensuring utmost monitoring of their residence at the convenience of the couch.
The Home Hub will also send real-time notifications to keep users informed about any happening. What sets these notifications apart is that they are designed to be unobtrusive, so users' viewing experience is sure to be intact.