Since the start of the year, one could wonder whether the Google TV Streamer would receive a notable update. The answer has finally arrived.
If we haven’t always been kind to the Google TV Streamer box, which has replaced Chromecast since 2025, it’s largely due to its high price for a modest feature set. This beginning of 2026 was hardly disagreeing with that assessment, as there still hadn’t been any major update on the horizon (aside from small fixes).
Nevertheless, Google has set things straight by rolling out its first major patch of the year, which includes – for the very first time on a Google streaming device – Thread 1.4 support. Here’s the full breakdown.
The Google TV Streamer finally adds Thread 1.4 support: what will change?
Up to now confined to a ‘simple’ streaming module, something Chromecast handled quite well before, the Google TV Streamer appears to be charting a new path little by little. And for good reason: beyond security fixes (which move from August 2025 to April 2026) and modest performance tweaks that are fairly minor, its latest update finally makes it Thread 1.4 compatible, a home-automation networking protocol.
With this addition, users will be able to “share Thread network credentials” via a new dedicated option, and easily add the TV Streamer to their Thread network at home. It will simply require entering a validation code to complete the setup.
In short, this should greatly simplify integrating the box into the smart home ecosystem. Instead of ending up with several parallel networks, Thread 1.4 will unify all other compatible devices and even extend network coverage thanks to “Thread-over-Infrastructure.” Whether your devices are upstairs, in the basement, or at the far end of the yard, there will be no more range issues.
Is this update enough to push us to drop Chromecast?
Despite increasingly obvious wear signs, such as this new remote bug, many Chromecast users still struggle to part with their compact box. Especially since Google markets the TV Streamer as its logical successor, whereas Amazon sells its Fire TV Sticks for up to a third of the price.
If home automation isn’t a priority for you and you’re hoping for fresh streaming features, this TV Streamer update probably won’t matter. Yet if you’re looking for a device that offers a stronger Google Home integration and easier control, there may be room for hesitation.
