Google Reveals Nexus Player

The upcoming set-top box offers streaming media, apps, and gaming capabilities. 

Google and ASUS have announced the release of the Nexus Player. The compact entertainment player uses the Android TV interface and will provide streaming and casting features.

The Nexus Player is powered by a 1.8GHz Quad Core Intel Atom CPU and an Imagination PowerVR Series 6 Graphics 2D/3D Engine, along with 1GB of RAM and 8GB of storage. The sleek disc shaped device measures just 120mm x 120mm x 20mm, and features an HDMI out (1920x1080@60Hz), Micro-USB 2.0 port, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. A voice-activated remote control is also included, enabling a convenient voice search option. Google Play access along with support for several apps is integrated as well, providing popular services like Netflix, Crackle, Vevo, Hulu Plus, YouTube, Pandora, and more. In addition, similar to the company's Chromecast dongle, customers can also use the Nexus Player to cast apps to their TVs from mobile devices and PCs. Finally, a separate Gamepad ($39) can be purchased for Android gaming.

Google's Nexus Player will be available on November 3 for a suggested retail price of $99, and pre-orders will be begin on October 17. Meanwhile, the company's Chromecast dongle is currently on sale for $28. Likewise, Amazon's very similar streaming player, the Fire TV, is currently on sale for $84.

Sources: Google, Engadget

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