Google's hot new item this holiday season has been its dongle-sized video streaming device, the Chromecast, is looking to expand its scope and reach in 2014. The device was recently named Time Magazine's "Gadget of the Year." It has been available for U.S. customers since its release. However, the device has international compatibility. Now it looks like Google will be expanding to a number of new territories in 2014 as it expands its apps.
According to an interview with Gigaom, Google's vice president of product deveopment, Mario Quieroz revealed that the firm's plans will "pleasantly surprise people." The company will accomplish this surprise by expanding to more countries and areas around the world.
This will work in tandem with the device's plan to open up its system development kit in order to encourage developers to create hundreds of apps that will work with Google's TV streaming device, which plugs into your TVs HDMI port and allows you to stream your videos and music from your computer, smartphone or tablet directly to your TV via WiFi.
Once Google expands both its app count and its reach across the world, the Chromecast could replace many devices like the Apple TV or Roku for turning your regular TV into a smart TV.
Currently the Chromecast supports Netflix, YouTube, Pandora, VEVO, HBO GO and a few others. Most notably was Google's recent decision to allow users to use an app that plays local files form a computer or smartphone. Previously it had blocked these functionalities because the company was worried that allowing possibly pirated files to run on the Chromecast would deter developers from HBO and other cable networks who lose money off of piracy to capitalize on the technology.
Tell us what you think. Will you be purchasing a Chromecast for yourself or your loved ones this holiday season? Comment and share your thoughts with us on Google's media streaming device with us below.
