<div type="image" title="highspeed railway railroad train" height="1500" width="2000" msid="78195460" hostid="261"></div><ul class="summary-list"><li>At <keyword id="9917243" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="united-for-infrastructure">United for Infrastructure</keyword> 2020, a week-long virtual event bringing key stakeholders together, leaders, and government officials discussed how <keyword id="94495" type="ENTERTAINMENT" weightage="60" keywordseo="Innovation">innovation</keyword> and <keyword id="6358815" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="tech">tech</keyword> can improve America's <keyword id="17408" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="infrastructure">infrastructure</keyword> for the long haul.</li><li>High-speed rails are the future, they said, pointing to success in Japan, China, and many European countries — and the rising need for better public transportation during the pandemic.</li><li>Cities like Denver and Plano, Texas, have partnered with tech companies like Comcast to bring free and low-cost broadband internet to their communities.</li><li>Investing in water recycling systems can ensure we're conserving energy and making our infrastructure sustainable through the 21st century.</li></ul><p>Infrastructure conversations often center on the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/united-for-infrastructure-2020-inequality-us-federal-action-2020-9">funding needed</a> to maintain decades-old roadways, highways, utilities, and other systems. But according to government leaders on a recent panel, "<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/washington-post-live/2020/09/17/infrastructure-innovation/">Infrastructure and Innovation</a>," cities should be thinking more about innovation and making infrastructure decisions that are relevant for the 21st century. </p><p>The <a href="https://unitedforinfrastructure.org/event/infrastructure-during-a-pandemic/">session</a>, held on September 17 and hosted by Washington Post Live and Siemens USA, was part of <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/annual-event-virtual-infrastructure-week-how-us-rebuildbetter-2020-9">United for Infrastructure 2020</a>, a week-long virtual event bringing together stakeholders across different sectors to discuss the value of infrastructure to the economy and citizens.</p><p>"We talk a lot about the need to simply invest more money in infrastructure, and of course this includes everything from fixing the potholes in our roads, our bridges that are literally falling down, to investing in high-speed broadband all across America, including rural America," US Rep. Seth Moulton (D-Massachusetts) said during the panel. "But while everyone agrees we have an infrastructure deficit, I think what we don't talk about enough is how to truly invest in 21st-century infrastructure."</p><p>This is especially important now, as most mayors expect their cities' operating budgets will drop in the next 12 to 18 months, with 66% saying COVID-19 is to blame for the decline, according to a new<a href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200916005107/en/To-Drive-Post-COVID-Economic-Recovery-Mayors-Prioritize-Infrastructure-and-Technology-Investments-Study-Finds"> US Conference of Mayors (USCM) study</a> conducted with Siemens USA and the Harris Poll.</p><p>With money tight, investing in infrastructure to create jobs and grow their local economies is mayors' top priority. Dedicating resources to innovative, tech-focused, and environmentally forward initiatives may offer the best payoff in the long run.</p><h2>High-speed rail, not highways, may make more sense for the future</h2><p>The transportation system is one example of how infrastructure initiatives don't always factor in the future. Japan, China, and many European countries have invested heavily in high-speed rail, which is faster, more efficient, and better for the environment, while Moulton said the US is "doubling down on highways."</p><p>"We're still pouring billions and billions of dollars into a 1950s-era highway system without investing in high-speed rail," he said.</p><p>In May, Moulton proposed a <a href="https://www.progressiverailroading.com/high_speed_rail/news/US-Rep-Moulton-proposes-national-high-speed-rail-network--60509">plan to invest $205 billion</a> over the next five years to build a coast-to-coast high-speed rail network, which he said would create 2.6 million jobs, reduce strain on highways, and encourage global competitiveness. "This is a better use of our transportation dollars," he said during the panel.</p><p>Fear over contracting COVID-19 has curbed the public's <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/safest-modes-of-transportation-during-a-pandemic-2020-4">use of public transportation</a>, however, and the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/average-prices-for-cars-increased-during-covid-19-over-demand-2020-8">demand for new and used cars</a> has grown.</p><p>"Life is going to get back to normal," Moulton said, and congested and crumbling roadways will continue to be a nuisance for commuters. "The question is, are we going to recreate the infrastructure that we built in the 1950s or are we going to build a next-generation infrastructure system that includes high-speed rail, high-speed broadband, next-generation technologies like 5G to reach everywhere in America and truly improve the quality of life for Americans?"</p><h2>Tech-focused programs can bridge the digital divide</h2><p>According to the USCM study, 84% of mayors said it was more important to dedicate resources to technology, including 5G and universal WiFi, to help residents working remotely than to commercial buildings. But 97% still agreed investing in the technology needed to reimagine, change, or adapt how commercial buildings are being used is vital to their city's future.</p><p>Access to broadband internet has been a key discussion point during United for Infrastructure 2020, as the pandemic has put the digital divide on display. Advocacy group <a href="https://broadbandnow.com/research/fcc-underestimates-unserved-by-50-percent">Broadband Now</a> estimates that more than 40 million Americans lack access to broadband, with rural areas and communities of color hardest hit. </p><p>Cities across the country have been working on solutions to address the problem, and many are partnering with tech companies to do so. Denver, for example, joined forces with Comcast to bring the Internet Essentials program to the city to offer <a href="https://www.denverpost.com/2020/03/13/comcast-free-broadband-low-income-households-coronavirus/">free or low-cost broadband</a> to low-income households.</p><p>"Everybody was blown away to learn again that we still have this gap existing, this digital divide that separates the haves and the have-nots in our communities," Denver Mayor Michael Hancock said. "Too many of our children were lost because they did not have the ability to get online at home."</p><p>Plano, Texas, is also working with telecom providers to put 5G infrastructure in place, the city's Mayor Harry LaRosiliere said.</p><p>"In order to be relevant in the next decade, we need to invest in our infrastructure," he said. "We're looking at doing creative things, like using drones for traffic monitoring and smart poles that allow residents to connect throughout the city, and for our first responders to have access to broadband and WiFi throughout the city. And that's a major expense."</p><h2>Innovation could protect water and energy resources</h2><p>Investing in technology that will make cities more environmentally sustainable is another concern for officials. According to the USCM poll, 78% of mayors placed a high priority on reducing energy costs and emissions, and nearly 70% were prioritizing investing in infrastructure for electric vehicles in public transit and in "resilient energy projects" to address power outages. Developing more sustainable ways to generate power is also important.</p><p>Water utility officials discussed how many of the utilities across the country are redesigning and innovating their capabilities on the panel "<a href="https://unitedforinfrastructure.org/event/hq-2-0-infrastructure-innovations-at-utility-headquarters/">HQ 2.0: Infrastructure Innovations at Utility Headquarters</a>."</p><p>The <a href="https://www.sfwater.org">San Francisco Public Utilities Commission</a>, for example, implemented an onsite water recycling program, where rainwater and water produced at its facility runs through a treatment system, is disinfected, and then is used to flush toilets in the building, the commission's director of water resources Paula Kehoe said.</p><p>"We have been able to save over 50% of our indoor potable water demand as a result of this system," she said.</p><p>Using the headquarters as a model, in 2015, the city of San Francisco began requiring all new developments in the city over 250,000 square feet to recycle water on-site for the building's toilet flushing and irrigation.</p><p>One barrier for more efficient water programs nationwide is that water and wastewater utilities lack consistent water-quality standards that protect public health, Kehoe said. The US Water Alliance's <a href="http://uswateralliance.org/initiatives/commission">National Blue Ribbon Commission for On-site Non-potable Water Systems</a> is working to create consistent water-quality standards from state to state, promote standards that are risk-based, encourage local oversight and management, and establish peer-to-peer learning.</p><p>Scott Berry, director of policy and government affairs at <a href="http://uswateralliance.org">US Water Alliance</a>, said water utility innovators are showing what's possible when it comes to reducing energy and creating more sustainable systems.</p><p>"These technologies not only have a big potential for managing utilities' bottom line, and by extension the affordability of services to their customers, but also they really demonstrate the leadership that some utilities are doing to be anchor institutions in their communities by being good stewards of resources," he said.</p>

High-speed railways, water recycling programs, and partnerships with tech companies: How America can innovate to make its infrastructure more competitive, sustainable, and last through the 21st century

<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/insiderpicks"><em>Insider Picks</em></a> <em>writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.</em></p><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><a href="https://amzn.to/2PYhwUT" target="_blank" title="Roku's wide range of streaming devices means you can find one that fits your budget and needs." rel="noopener"></a><p class="source"><span>Roku</span></p><p class="caption">Roku's wide range of streaming devices means you can find one that fits your budget and needs.</p></div><p></p></div></div></p><ul class="summary-list"><li><strong>Roku's product lineup of streaming devices is getting bigger, and there are many ways to get 4K HDR support at a price point that fits your budget.<br /></strong></li><li><strong>The <a href="https://amzn.to/2PYhwUT" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Roku Streaming Stick+</a> is very similar to other Roku devices and even has Wi-Fi support, making it great for areas where Wi-Fi can be spotty. </strong></li><li><strong>The <a href="https://amzn.to/2PYhwUT" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Streaming Stick+</a> is pretty cheap too - you can get 4K and HDR streaming for under $60. It's a great pick for those who want a simple way to stream without additional hardware. </strong></li></ul><p>Roku's product lineup has expanded a ton over the past few years, and the company basically offers a streaming device for any price range.</p><p><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/roku-ultra-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Roku Ultra</a> is a high-end version at $100, and offers smart features, 4K HDR support, voice control, and more. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/roku-premiere-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Roku Premiere</a> is considerably less expensive at $30 but still offers 4K HDR support. Then there's the <a href="https://amzn.to/2PYhwUT" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Roku Streaming Stick+</a>, which is a nice in-between model at $60 and has some helpful features with more streamlined hardware. </p><p>But is the Streaming Stick+ really worth buying, or should you save your money for the Premiere, or pay a little extra for the Ultra? We've been using the Streaming Stick+ for a while to find out how it compares to the rest.</p><p><em><strong>Read more</strong>:<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/roku-ultra-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> The Roku Ultra is $100 less than the Apple TV and still supports 4K video quality - here's why it's the best streaming box for anyone on a budget</a> </em></p><h3><strong>Design</strong></h3><p>Unlike the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/roku-ultra-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ultra</a> and <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/roku-premiere-review">Premiere</a>, both of which have a box-like unit that you place by your TV and a remote control, the <a href="https://amzn.to/2PYhwUT" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Streaming Stick+</a> is a streaming stick with an additional remote.</p><p>That's to say that it plugs right into your TV's HDMI port similar to a USB drive, but unlike a USB, it does require power. You can use a USB cable to plug it into your TV's USB port, if it has one, or an extension cable and a power adapter in case your TV doesn't. </p><p>The <a href="https://amzn.to/2PYhwUT" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Streaming Stick+</a> itself is pretty sleek. It measures around 3.7 inches long and 0.8 inches wide, and as such it shouldn't protrude too much from the TV and will only be visible a small amount. For some TV models, it may be better to use a rear-facing HDMI port than a side-facing one, if you have one available.</p><p>There's also the design of the remote to consider, and if you've used any other Roku device, you'll be immediately familiar with it. At the top, there are power and software controls, and playback controls toward the button. You'll also get a voice button, meaning you can use the remote to control your Roku with your voice. It's a nice touch and helpful for those who want to use voice commands more often.</p><p>Last but not least, there are buttons for apps like Netflix, Sling, Hulu, and PlayStation Vue.</p><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><a href="https://amzn.to/2PYhwUT" target="_blank" title="The Streaming Stick+ is small and plugs directly into your TV like a USB port. " rel="noopener"></a><p class="source"><span>Amazon</span></p><p class="caption">The Streaming Stick+ is small and plugs directly into your TV like a USB port.</p></div><p></p></div></div></p><h3><strong>Specs</strong></h3><ul><li>Stick measures 3.7 x 0.8 x 0.47 inches</li><li>Voice control</li><li>Supports 4K and HDR 10</li><li>Supports up to 60 frames per second</li></ul><h3><strong>Set-up process  </strong></h3><p>Setting up the <a href="https://amzn.to/2PYhwUT" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Streaming Stick+</a> is just as easy as setting up any other Roku device.</p><p>Plug it into your TV's HDMI port, then connect a USB or power outlet. The device should then start up so you can set up your account. Doing so involves entering the code on your TV screen into your phone or computer, then logging in to your account, or creating a new one. You'll then be able to select which apps, or "channels," you want installed on your device - you'll probably want to deselect most of the ones that are pre-checked to streamline things.</p><p>In general, we think the vast majority of people will be able to set up the Streaming Stick+ quickly and easily. As someone who has used plenty of Roku devices before, it took five minutes, but for the uninitiated, we don't think it will take longer than 15 minutes.</p><h3><strong>What makes it stand out</strong></h3><p>There are a number of things that make the <a href="https://amzn.to/2PYhwUT" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Streaming Stick+</a> stand out, namely that it supports 4K and HDR10 for less than $60. Of course, that isn't necessarily all that impressive when the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/roku-premiere-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Premiere</a> does the same and is cheaper. There's also the fact that both offer voice control on the remote. </p><p>So what makes the <a href="https://amzn.to/2PYhwUT" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Streaming Stick+</a> unique? It uses better Wi-Fi technology at 802.11ac, meaning it should be a little better at streaming 4K video. It's one of the faster versions of Wi-Fi, second only to the new Wi-Fi 6. And according to Roku, the device also has an "advanced wireless receiver," which means that it should be better at connecting to the Internet from a further distance.</p><p>The extra features, like voice control, are pretty helpful when your hands are tied. We would certainly recommend getting the Streaming Stick+ over the regular Streaming Stick because of the additional voice support, and Roku's voice recognition is getting better and better.</p><p>Wi-Fi trickery aside, the Streaming Stick+ also offers Roku's easy-to-use interface which is versatile and easy to navigate. That's good news for those that don't need all the bells and whistles, but just want to watch their favorite show.</p><h3><strong>Cons to consider</strong></h3><p>The <a href="https://amzn.to/2PYhwUT" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Streaming Stick+</a> is a pretty nice device, but it's not perfect.</p><p>For starters, while the Roku user interface is easy to navigate, it is starting to feel a little dated. Roku hasn't given the interface a major update in some time now, and we'd like to see something new from the company. This has been a consistent point of feedback from me after reviewing most of the Roku lineup over the years. </p><p>The Streaming Stick+ is a pretty nice device but it can be hard to see why you should buy it over other Roku devices. Unless your TV is in a location with spotty Wi-Fi, you might be better off buying the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/roku-premiere-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Premiere+</a>, which is slightly cheaper, or an <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/roku-ultra-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ultra</a>, which is a little more expensive but also comprehensive, supports better audio, and has more features.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-streaming-box-stick" target="_blank" rel="noopener"></a></p><p><em><strong>Read more</strong>: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-streaming-box-stick" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The best streaming sticks and boxes you can buy</a></em></p><h3><strong>The bottom line</strong></h3><p>The <a href="https://amzn.to/2PYhwUT" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Roku Streaming Stick+</a> is an excellent device for those who like the simplicity of Roku's platform, need decent connectivity, and want 4K and HDR video support.</p><p>If your TV is near the router however, then you're probably better off buying a <a href="http://linksynergy.walmart.com/deeplink?id=EHFxW6yx8Uo&amp;mid=2149&amp;u1=biip_050919_roku-streaming-stick-20&amp;murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FRoku-Premiere-4K-HDR-Streaming-Player-WITH-30-DAY-FREE-TRIAL-OF-SLING-INCLUDING-CLOUD-DVR-40-VALUE%2F775987008" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Premiere+</a>. Alternatively, if you don't mind using an Amazon device instead of a Roku device, then the <a href="https://amzn.to/2LztRAp" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Amazon Fire TV Stick</a> is worth considering, plus it's a little cheaper too.</p><p><strong>Pros: </strong>Nice form-factor, easy to use, easy to set up, good value for money</p><p><strong>Cons: </strong>Interface design could use a refresh, alternatives offer similar features for less</p><h3><a href="https://amzn.to/2PYhwUT">Buy the Roku Streaming Stick+ on Amazon for $59.00</a></h3><p class="tagline"><p style="font-size: 14px;"><a href="http://e.businessinsider.com/join/ci/insider-picks">Subscribe to our newsletter.</a><br><br>Find all the best offers at our <a href="https://coupons.businessinsider.com/">Coupons page</a>.<br><br>Disclosure: This post is brought to you by the <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/insiderpicks">Insider Picks</a> team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners. We frequently receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at insiderpicks@businessinsider.com.</br></br></br></br></p></p>

The $60 Roku Streaming Stick+ looks slick and doesn't require an additional box - it's great for those that want a streamlined device

<ul class="summary-list"><li>The new, <a href="https://bestbuy.7tiv.net/c/196318/614286/10014?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fchromecast-with-google-tv-4k-snow%2F6425976.p%3FskuId%3D6425976%26irclickid%3D1cmX7mXacxyOWblxU-SAVSQkUkiSLJzAwx2wSM0%26irgwc%3D1%26ref%3D198%26loc%3DBusiness%2520Insider.%26acampID%3D0%26mpid%3D196318" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">$50 Chromecast with Google TV</a> offers a sizable upgrade over previous models.</li><li>Unlike older versions, the new Chromecast can play apps right from the device, rather than having to rely on casting from a separate smartphone.</li><li>A handy voice remote is also included, and the Chromecast is capable of 4K, HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision.</li><li>On the downside, I've run into some minor glitches, and a few key apps are currently missing HDR support.</li></ul>Table of Contents: Masthead Sticky<p>When it comes to <keyword id="572624" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Streaming">streaming</keyword> devices, Google's Chromecast has always been a bit of an odd man out. Instead of offering app support directly from the device, traditional Chromecast models allow you to wirelessly stream apps from a smartphone or computer to your TV. </p><p>Though that feature is certainly handy in its own right, having to rely on a mobile device as a source can be an inconvenience, especially when you simply want to plop down on your couch, grab the remote, and start streaming. This design choice also puts the Chromecast at odds with other streaming sticks and boxes that let you play apps on your TV without any additional components.</p><p>This brings us to Google's brand-new <a href="https://bestbuy.7tiv.net/c/196318/614286/10014?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fchromecast-with-google-tv-4k-snow%2F6425976.p%3FskuId%3D6425976%26irclickid%3D1cmX7mXacxyOWblxU-SAVSQkUkiSLJzAwx2wSM0%26irgwc%3D1%26ref%3D198%26loc%3DBusiness%2520Insider.%26acampID%3D0%26mpid%3D196318" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">Chromecast with Google TV</a>. While the $50 dongle looks similar to older versions, the new model now includes a full-fledged on-screen interface complete with built-in app support and a voice remote. You can also still cast all your favorite services from a smartphone or computer if you prefer. In other words, it's the best of both worlds.</p><p>Google provided Insider <keyword id="52147" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="reviews">Reviews</keyword> with a review unit ahead of the new Chromecast's launch, and after spending a couple days with the device, I find that it performs well and shows a lot of promise. That being said, it's important to note that this review is based on initial impressions, and it's possible that new issues could arise or existing flaws could be fixed over time. </p><p>With that in mind, we'll update the review if there are any noteworthy developments as we spend a bit more time with the Chromecast.     </p><h2>Design</h2><div type="image" title="Chromeast" height="1125" width="1500" msid="78415543" hostid="261"></div><p>Like the Chromecast Ultra, the new <a href="https://bestbuy.7tiv.net/c/196318/614286/10014?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fchromecast-with-google-tv-4k-snow%2F6425976.p%3FskuId%3D6425976%26irclickid%3D1cmX7mXacxyOWblxU-SAVSQkUkiSLJzAwx2wSM0%26irgwc%3D1%26ref%3D198%26loc%3DBusiness%2520Insider.%26acampID%3D0%26mpid%3D196318" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Chromecast with Google TV</a> takes the form of a thin, puck-shaped dongle that plugs directly into the HDMI port of your TV. A small "G" logo is etched onto the center of the puck. In contrast to the older model, the new version is more oval in shape rather than circular. </p><p>We received an all-white model, which Google calls "Snow." "Sky" and "Sunrise" color options are also available. In general, I like the white color scheme as it gives the device a slick, clean look.</p><p>An HDMI cable is built right into the Chromecast and measures about 2-inches, which is just enough to let the Chromecast gently hang from your TV's HDMI port. A USB-C connection is also integrated to connect the included power cable. Unlike the Chromecast Ultra, the new Chromecast with Google TV does not include an Ethernet port for a wired internet connection.</p><p>A compact voice remote is also included, which is a first for the Chromecast lineup. The handy remote matches the color of the Chromecast and includes a circular click pad for navigation, along with buttons for Google Assistant, back, home, mute, YouTube, Netflix, TV power, and TV source. Volume buttons are also present on the side. Minimalist yet perfectly functional, the remote has all the major options you need, and the buttons have a solid feel.</p><h2>Specifications</h2><ul><li>Video playback: Up to 4K HDR, 60 frames per second </li><li>HDR formats: HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision</li><li>Smart platform: Google TV</li><li>Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11ac (2.4 GHz/5 GHz), Bluetooth</li><li>Ports: HDMI, USB Type-C</li><li>Remote: Voice remote with Google Assistant</li><li>Dimensions: 6.4 x 2.4 x 0.5 inches</li></ul><h2>Setup</h2><div type="image" title="Chromecast Dongle 2" height="1125" width="1500" msid="78415544" hostid="261"></div><p>Setting up the <a href="https://bestbuy.7tiv.net/c/196318/614286/10014?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fchromecast-with-google-tv-4k-snow%2F6425976.p%3FskuId%3D6425976%26irclickid%3D1cmX7mXacxyOWblxU-SAVSQkUkiSLJzAwx2wSM0%26irgwc%3D1%26ref%3D198%26loc%3DBusiness%2520Insider.%26acampID%3D0%26mpid%3D196318" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Chromecast</a> is a fairly simple process, but it does require the Google Home app on an iOS or Android device. You just need to unpack the device, connect the power cable, and then plug the Chromecast's integrated HDMI cable directly into your TV's HDMI port.</p><p>After you boot the device on, the on-screen interface will ask you to use the Google Home app on your smartphone to scan a QR code on the screen to continue the process. After some other general housekeeping items, including inputting Wi-Fi settings, signing into your Google account, and accepting various terms of service, the Chromecast will download updates and restart. </p><p>You can then select which services you'd like to be included in your app library, and configure the remote to work with most TVs, soundbars, and receivers.</p><p>With all that out of the way, you're basically good to go. It's worth noting, however, that the Chromecast defaults to forcing <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/what-is-hdr-tv" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HDR</a> on all the time if you have an HDR TV. This causes SDR content to look overly saturated and artificial. To fix this, you simply need to activate the "Match content dynamic range" option in the display settings menu. If you have an HDR TV, I highly recommend doing this, and I wish Google had simply kept that on by default. </p><h2>Google TV</h2><div type="image" title="Chromecast remote comparison" height="1125" width="1500" msid="78415545" hostid="261"></div><p>Unlike previous Chromecast models, the new <a href="https://bestbuy.7tiv.net/c/196318/614286/10014?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fchromecast-with-google-tv-4k-snow%2F6425976.p%3FskuId%3D6425976%26irclickid%3D1cmX7mXacxyOWblxU-SAVSQkUkiSLJzAwx2wSM0%26irgwc%3D1%26ref%3D198%26loc%3DBusiness%2520Insider.%26acampID%3D0%26mpid%3D196318" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Chromecast</a> comes with its own dedicated interface and built-in selection of apps. Instead of using the Android TV platform found on some smart TVs and media players, however, the Chromecast marks the debut of the brand-new Google TV interface.</p><p>I've always found the Android TV platform to be perfectly serviceable but a bit drab and barebones in appearance and navigation. The new Google TV interface offers a nice upgrade, presenting a more visually appealing system with some quality of life improvements.</p><p>On the downside, the new look is now eerily similar to other popular streaming platforms and apps, like Fire TV, Apple TV, and Disney Plus. That's not necessarily a bad thing, as this general style works well, but it is a bit boring how interchangeable the design of these different services has become. </p><p>Google TV offers an attractive home screen, dubbed "For You," which features rows of icons for content recommendations, your favorite apps, recently watched titles, and specific content categories. A horizontal menu across the top of the screen lets you access additional hub pages for Search, Movies, Shows, Apps, and Library.</p><p>The Library section offers easy access to any titles you've purchased from Google Play or YouTube, along with access to a Watchlist that you can add titles to from any app available on Google TV. This offers a convenient way to keep track of movies and shows you'd like to watch, even if they're all on different services.   </p><p>A seventh hub page, called Live TV, is also available if you subscribe to YouTube TV. This tab makes it simple to jump right into live TV with easy access to the channel guide. Though YouTube TV is the only live service currently supported, Google plans to add support for other live services and apps in the future, making it easy to watch all your live content in one place.</p><p>Navigation is generally responsive with fairly snappy performance while moving between menus and apps. I did encounter some sluggish moments early on in use, however, with some lag between launching certain apps or returning to the home screen from Netflix. There was also an odd but isolated issue where the screen would go grey for about five seconds and refresh the menus.</p><p>More bothersome was an instance where all video streaming seemed to stop working except for YouTube. Though all the apps would load and allow me to browse content, an error message would pop up every time I tried to launch a video. Restarting the device fixed the problem and I haven't encountered it since. </p><p>Occasional sluggish moments and isolated glitches like those aren't a big deal as long as they don't become recurring issues. Based on my initial time with the unit, the Google TV offers navigation and usability that's on par with similar compact 4K streaming devices.</p><p>Finally, Google TV also allows you to use the included remote to access Google Assistant for voice search and other digital assistant functions. Searching for shows and launching apps with the Google Assistant is a breeze, and the voice remote can also be used to initiate playback from Nest speakers or pull up footage from a connected Nest security camera on your TV screen.</p><h2>Playback performance</h2><div type="image" title="Chromecast with remote 1" height="1125" width="1500" msid="78415549" hostid="261"></div><p>No matter how pretty an interface might be, it's all meaningless if the streaming apps don't end up playing correctly. Thankfully, playback performance is generally strong on the new <a href="https://bestbuy.7tiv.net/c/196318/614286/10014?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fchromecast-with-google-tv-4k-snow%2F6425976.p%3FskuId%3D6425976%26irclickid%3D1cmX7mXacxyOWblxU-SAVSQkUkiSLJzAwx2wSM0%26irgwc%3D1%26ref%3D198%26loc%3DBusiness%2520Insider.%26acampID%3D0%26mpid%3D196318" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Chromecast</a>.</p><p>For testing purposes, I sampled a variety of shows and movies from different apps, including <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-watch-netflix-free-shows-movies" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Netflix</a>, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/disney-plus-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Disney Plus</a>, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-much-is-hulu" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hulu</a>, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-use-prime-video" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Prime Video</a>, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/hbo-max-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HBO Max</a>, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-rent-movies-online#vudu-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Vudu</a>, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-rent-movies-online#fandangonow-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FandangoNow</a>, Movies Anywhere, YouTube, and more.</p><p>Whether reliving the '90s by binge-watching old episodes of "ER" on Hulu, or tuning into the latest episode of Amazon's "The Boys" in full 4K HDR10+, playback is smooth, sharp, and free from any audio sync issues. </p><p>Dolby Atmos surround sound comes through correctly from supported apps, though I'm disappointed to see that Atmos support is not currently available through the Chromecast's Disney Plus app. </p><p>More concerning, though, is the odd lack of 4K HDR support for a few key services that usually offer this option on other streaming devices. Vudu, Movies Anywhere, and FandangoNow are all currently locked to HD and standard dynamic range. For comparison's sake, all of these apps offer 4K HDR support through a <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/roku-streaming-stick-plus-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Roku Streaming Stick+</a>. </p><p>I've reached out to Google to see if updates for these services are a possibility and I'll update this section when I hear more. On the plus side, the Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, and Google Play apps all offer strong 4K HDR performance</p><p>Though I typically prefer to use the device's on-screen interface, casting remains a major playback feature for the new Chromecast. Whether streaming videos from various Chromecast-enabled apps on my Samsung Galaxy S10 smartphone, or streaming my web browser directly from my Windows laptop, casting works without any major issues, seamlessly transmitting the image to my TV.</p><h2>The bottom line</h2><div type="image" title="Chromecast device comparison" height="1125" width="1500" msid="78415553" hostid="261"></div><p>Google's brand-new <a href="https://bestbuy.7tiv.net/c/196318/614286/10014?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fchromecast-with-google-tv-4k-snow%2F6425976.p%3FskuId%3D6425976%26irclickid%3D1cmX7mXacxyOWblxU-SAVSQkUkiSLJzAwx2wSM0%26irgwc%3D1%26ref%3D198%26loc%3DBusiness%2520Insider.%26acampID%3D0%26mpid%3D196318" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Chromecast with Google TV</a> presents a sizable step forward for the Chromecast lineup. In addition to the casting support buyers are familiar with, we finally get an integrated interface with on-screen apps and a voice remote. There are some minor drawbacks and issues with HDR playback from some apps, but general performance is strong. </p><h3>Should you buy it?</h3><p>Though I've been hesitant to recommend older Chromecast models over similarly priced streaming options from the competition, the new <a href="https://bestbuy.7tiv.net/c/196318/614286/10014?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fchromecast-with-google-tv-4k-snow%2F6425976.p%3FskuId%3D6425976%26irclickid%3D1cmX7mXacxyOWblxU-SAVSQkUkiSLJzAwx2wSM0%26irgwc%3D1%26ref%3D198%26loc%3DBusiness%2520Insider.%26acampID%3D0%26mpid%3D196318" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Chromecast with Google TV</a> has virtually all the features buyers are looking for. General performance is strong and, at $50, it's competitively priced. If you're looking for a compact streaming solution with 4K playback from Netflix, Amazon, and YouTube, the new Chromecast is a worthy purchase, especially if you're already plugged into the Google ecosystem.</p><p>However, if you're hoping to stream 4K HDR digital rentals and purchases from services like Vudu, FandangoNow, and Movies Anywhere, the current app limitations might be a deal breaker. This is something that could potentially be addressed in future updates but, for now, 4K HDR playback is limited to a disappointingly small selection of services. </p><h3>What are your alternatives?</h3><p>When it comes to other $50 compact streaming devices, the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/fire-tv-stick-4k-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K</a> and <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/roku-streaming-stick-plus-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Roku Streaming Stick+</a> are both worth considering. </p><p>The Fire TV Stick 4K includes similar HDR capabilities as the new Chromecast, with support for HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision. With that said, Amazon's device is missing a few notable apps, including HBO Max, Peacock, and Vudu. It does feature the Apple TV app, however, which the Chromecast is missing. You won't get Google Assistant on the Fire TV Stick but integrated Alexa support is included instead.</p><p>Meanwhile, the Roku Streaming Stick+ is also a solid option. On the downside, Roku's device only supports HDR10 and does not offer HDR10+ or Dolby Vision playback. On the plus side, the app selection is extensive and includes the Apple TV service, but HBO Max is still missing. And, though it's compatible with separate Google Assistant or Alexa devices, the remote uses Roku's own voice search system.  </p><p><strong>Pros:</strong> Compact dongle design, 4K playback with extensive HDR format support, big app selection, voice remote with Google Assistant, new Google TV interface with easy navigation</p><p><strong>Cons:</strong> 4K HDR support is currently missing from a few key services, some minor glitches, no Apple TV app</p>

Google's new Chromecast is finally a genuine competitor to streaming sticks from Amazon and Roku with its built-in app support and voice remote

<p><em><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/insiderpicks" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.businessinsider.com/insiderpicks&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1555765402377000&amp;usg=AFQjCNENY6pyhx3uGdxMvzi8vo_ZRkJjvg">Insider Picks</a><span> </span>writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.</em></p><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017WOQFBO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B017WOQFBO&amp;linkId=e82791e150c23a6418eda68e09b7499c" target="_blank" title="For $249, the Libratone Zipp Mini 2 is a great portable option with long battery life. " rel="noopener"></a><p class="source"><span>Amazon</span></p><p class="caption">For $249, the Libratone Zipp Mini 2 is a great portable option with long battery life.</p></div><p></p></div></div></p><ul class="summary-list"><li><strong>The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Libratone Zipp Mini 2 (currently $249 on Amazon)</a> is one of the brand's latest and greatest speakers, offering a great design, portability, and long battery life.</strong></li><li><strong>While the sound quality isn't quite as great as the larger <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/libratone-zipp-2-smart-wireless-speaker-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp 2</a> or <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/sonos-one-voice-controlled-smart-speaker-review-2017-12" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sonos One</a>, considering its size, that shouldn't be an expectation.</strong></li><li><strong>We think the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017WOQFBO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B017WOQFBO&amp;linkId=e82791e150c23a6418eda68e09b7499c" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Libratone Zipp 2 Mini</a> is the best speaker for those that want something portable and relatively small.</strong></li></ul><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">AirPlay 2-enabled speakers have slowly but surely become more popular and accessible; there are a lot of options that give you</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> high-quality, multi-room audio straight from your iPhone without having to install other apps. Libratone was one of the first to adopt AirPlay 2 with its <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/libratone-zipp-wireless-connected-speaker-review-2017-7" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Libratone Zipp</a> and <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/libratone-zipp-mini-bluetooth-speaker-review-2018-10" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp Mini</a>, and now, it's followed up with the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/libratone-zipp-2-smart-wireless-speaker-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp 2</a> and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp Mini 2 (currently $249 on Amazon)</a>.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We've already reviewed the standard <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/libratone-zipp-2-smart-wireless-speaker-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Libratone Zipp 2</a> and found it to be an awesome speaker, despite its high price tag. Now, it's the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp Mini 2</a>'s turn. </span></p><h2><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span>Design</h2><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp Mini 2</a> looks almost identical to the original <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/libratone-zipp-mini-bluetooth-speaker-review-2018-10" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp Mini</a>, but that's not a bad thing by any means. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Zipp series features a pretty unique design. Around three-quarters of the way down the length of the speaker, you'll find a decorative zipper - which is where the Zipp series gets its name. On the top of the unit, there's a touch surface for controlling things like connectivity and basic settings, and on the back, you'll get a power button and USB port for charging a device.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At nine inches tall, the speaker is quite a bit smaller than the standard <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp 2</a> and the result is a more portable, compact experience - which we like. It's also available in a range of colors, including Cloudy Grey, Deep Lagoon, Graphite Grey, Nordic Black, and Victory Red.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In the end, the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp Mini 2</a> looks great and it's well-built too. We never felt like the speaker would break, and while it's important to take care of products like this, it should be able to withstand most day-to-day use.</span></p><h2>Specs</h2><ul><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">8.8 inches by 3.9 inches</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;">2.4 pounds</li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">360-degree audio</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">12-hour battery</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Alexa built in, with AirPlay 2 support</span></li></ul><h2>Set-up process</h2><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;"><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><p class="source"><span>Libratone</span></p><p class="caption">Audiophiles might enjoy the larger Libratone Zipp 2 because it has better sound quality, but I still liked the Zipp Mini 2 because of its compact size.</p></div><p></p></div></div></span></a></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Setting up the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Libratone Zipp Mini 2</a> is absolutely simple - plug the speaker into a power outlet and then download the Libratone app. Once the speaker is connected to your Wi-Fi network, you can set it up in the Apple Home app too, after which you'll be able to immediately ask Siri to play music on the speaker. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Perhaps the biggest difference between the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/libratone-zipp-mini-bluetooth-speaker-review-2018-10" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp Mini</a> and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp Mini 2</a> is the fact that the Zipp Mini 2 comes with Alexa built right in - just choose the option in the Libratone app, log in to your Amazon account, and you're done. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Once the speaker is set up, it should be available to use through Bluetooth and as a target through AirPlay 2 so you'll be able to play music from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, and other AirPlay 2-enabled speakers, which is a very handy feature to have. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span></p><h2>What makes it stand out<span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span></h2><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">There are a number of things that make the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp Mini 2</a> a great speaker. As mentioned, it supports AirPlay 2, which is great for Apple fans, and has Alexa built right in. That means that you can use the speaker to control your smart home devices, find out information from the web, and more.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Of course, the most important thing to consider when buying a speaker is how the speaker <em>sounds</em>, and the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp Mini 2</a> sounds pretty good - though there are a few quirks to it. The bass, for starters, is nowhere near as powerful as the standard <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp 2</a>, though that's to be expected. It can still deliver a punch though, which is nice to hear. The midrange is decently tuned and the high-end is present, though a little more high-end extension would have been appreciated. Generally speaking, the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/sonos-one-voice-controlled-smart-speaker-review-2017-12" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sonos One</a> is still probably the best-sounding AirPlay 2 smart speaker, though its downside is that it doesn't have a built-in battery.   </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp Mini 2</a> has a built-in battery, which seriously adds to its versatility. The battery will last up to 12 hours on a charge so you can take it around the house, or even take it on the road, though you'll have to connect through Bluetooth if you do. </span></p><h2><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span>Cons to consider<span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span></h2><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp Mini 2</a> is a great speaker, but it's not perfect. Audiophiles might have issues with the sound quality like I just mentioned, but most people might not even notice anything "wrong" with it.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The speaker is also a little expensive, which is worth keeping in mind. It's available for <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba">$249 on Amazon</a> - $80 more expensive than the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/sonos-one-voice-controlled-smart-speaker-review-2017-12" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sonos One</a>. Of course, there are advantages to this speaker over the Sonos - namely that the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017WOQFBO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B017WOQFBO&amp;linkId=e82791e150c23a6418eda68e09b7499c" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp Mini 2</a> has a built-in battery, making it portable and a little more versatile. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you don't mind keeping your speaker plugged in all the time though, we'd still recommend going with the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/sonos-one-voice-controlled-smart-speaker-review-2017-12" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sonos One</a> for better sound quality.</span></p><h2><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span>The bottom line<span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span></h2><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Looking for a decent smart speaker that's compact and portable? Then the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp Mini 2</a> a great product to buy. The larger <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp 2</a> is a little more powerful in the audio department and the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/sonos-one-voice-controlled-smart-speaker-review-2017-12" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sonos One</a> is a better choice if you're fine with keeping your speaker plugged in all the time, but for what the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp Mini 2</a> has to offer, it's well worth considering.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span></p><p><strong>Pros:</strong> Well-designed, easy to use, Alexa and AirPlay support, generally good sound</p><p><strong>Cons:</strong> A little expensive, doesn't sound as great as the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/libratone-zipp-2-smart-wireless-speaker-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zipp 2</a> or <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/sonos-one-voice-controlled-smart-speaker-review-2017-12" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sonos One</a></p><h3><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NW3DGBQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=biipf_041919_libratone-zipp-mini-2-review-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B07NW3DGBQ&amp;linkId=a30b5d61cd61e441b0e486b200e553ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Buy the Libratone Zipp Mini 2 on Amazon for $249</a></h3><p class="tagline"><a href="http://e.businessinsider.com/join/ci/insider-picks">Subscribe to our newsletter.</a><br><br>Find all the best offers at our <a href="https://coupons.businessinsider.com/">Coupons page</a>.<br><br>Disclosure: This post is brought to you by the <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/insiderpicks">Insider Picks</a> team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners. We frequently receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at insiderpicks@businessinsider.com.</br></br></br></br></p>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/game-thrones-season-8-episode-1-premiere-details-you-missed-jon-snow-2019-4">13 details you missed in the 'Game of Thrones' season 8 premiere</a></h3>        <div>                    </div>    </div>

This $249 portable speaker is great for outdoor use - it has a 12-hour battery life with Alexa and AirPlay 2 built in

LG's new NanoCell 4K TV is a solid living room display, but it can't quite match the bright HDR performance of its more affordable competitors

<p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image on-image"><p class="source"><span>Rafi Letzter/Tech Insider</span></p><p class="caption">The little Chromecast Audio's only audio port.</p></div><p></p></div></div>Google's Chromecast Audio, released in September, is the best audio streaming device you can buy. And it <a href="https://store.google.com/product/chromecast_audio">only costs $35</a>.</p><p>Before I explain the one thing wrong with it, you have to understand how it works.</p><p>Google's spinoff of its popular video-streaming device turns dumb speaker systems into smart ones. You control it from your phone, sending streams from apps like Spotify, Pocket Casts, and NPR One through your non-Bluetooth speakers. You can even take a phone call or watch a video on your phone without interrupting the stream. It's an almost-perfect multi-tasker.</p><p>Almost.</p><p>The nearly coin-sized gadget has two ports: a 3.5 mm audio jack like you'd find on your phone, and a micro-USB port for power. When mine showed up a couple months ago, a little fiddling connected it to my WiFi and speakers and it quickly became the most-used gadget in my apartment.</p><p>I'd get home and put on a podcast before I'd even unlocked the door. Then, if she wanted to put on music, my girlfriend could make the switch from her own cell. (The device can also theoretically stream from computers through a Chrome browser extension, but in practice Chrome streams tended to skip for me.)</p><p>But problems emerged when we wanted to watch a movie or I needed to work on my desktop computer. The device only has an "out" audio port, so anytime we needed the speakers for those purposes we'd have to scrounge around with wires to unplug the Chromecast and plug in the computer's audio cable.</p><p>This defeats the whole hands-free purpose of the device.</p><p>Some speaker set-ups will avoid this problem. Tech Insider reporter Antonio Villas-Boas has a system that lets him hook up multiple audio cables, and he can switch from Chromecast to TV without touching wires. But given how elegant a solution the Chromecast Audio is in all other respects, it's a bit of a disappointment that it's only convenient for systems that are already smart.</p><p>Leaving off an "in" port keeps the device tiny. Though it's unclear gadget that hides behind your speakers really needs to be that small.</p><p>Nonetheless, that issue aside you won't get any better bang for your buck in home audio.</p>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/faraday-future-first-car-ffzero1-f-f-zero-0-one-1-batmobile-tesla-rival-2016-1">Tesla's rival just unveiled its first car -&#xa0;and it looks like a futuristic Batmobile</a></h3>        <div>            <div>        <div class="ooyala-video-player" data-video-autoplay="false" data-video-id="1tNTkwMDE6Dnj5rVvQjupmlKl3CjKnMe" data-player-variable="ooyalapopvideo" id="ooyalaplayer_popvideo" style="width:1280px;height:720px"></div>        </div>        </div>            </div>

This is the best audio streaming device you can buy, but it has one major problem

<p></p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image on-image"></div><p></p></div></div>Bluetooth audio is set for a notable shift, and it could help usher in a new generation of headphones.<p>The ubiquitous wireless standard will move all audio applications onto a new, low-energy radio, called Bluetooth low energy (BLE), by the end of next year, according to Mark Powell, the executive director of the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG).</p><p>Bluetooth SIG is the industry body that oversees and promotes the development of Bluetooth as a whole. It counts hundreds of tech companies as members, and has the likes of Microsoft, Intel, and Apple on its <a href="https://www.bluetooth.com/about-us/board-of-directors" target="_blank">board of directors</a>.</p><p>Bluetooth low energy is separate from the "classic" Bluetooth BR/EDR protocol most wireless accessories use today. It was adopted into the Bluetooth standard with the Bluetooth 4.0 spec in 2010, and focuses on consuming less power than the traditional tech. As a result, it's often seen in peripherals like fitness trackers, which only need to send data back to a source device in small batches. Right now, though, it doesn't have a defined standard for streaming audio.</p><p></p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"></div><p></p></div></div>The SIG has been working to create an official BLE audio streaming standard for "at least 18 months, if not longer," according to IHS Markit analyst Lee Ratliff, who characterizes the shift as an "open secret" within the industry.<p>The <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/bluetooth-5-confirmed-faster-wireless-longer-range-2016-6" target="_blank">forthcoming Bluetooth 5.0 update</a>, which claims to quadruple the range and double the speed of low-energy connections, could be seen as "foundational release," according to WiFore CTO Nick Hunn, who is helping develop the tech. The idea is for that to set the stage, mostly benefiting Internet of Things (IoT) devices, then layer the audio functionality on top.</p><h2>What this change could do</h2><p>The 5.0 change could bring a few new benefits to wireless headphones and speakers. Since Bluetooth low energy is designed to consume less power, it'd theoretically result in much improved battery life. In a <a href="http://www.nickhunn.com/airpods-a-speculative-teardown/" target="_blank">blog post</a>, for instance, Hunn claims BLE audio could enable a smaller headphone like Apple's AirPods to last for "days, not hours."</p><p>Powell said the range updates coming with Bluetooth 5.0 would apply to audio as well.</p><p>He also noted that a user could stream BLE audio to multiple devices at once. This would make it easier to create a multi-room audio system over Bluetooth, Powell said. It would likely sound worse than a WiFi-based system such as a Sonos, but it'd seemingly allow it to be longer-lasting and more portable.</p><p></p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"></div><p></p></div></div>Though Powell said the new standard will apply to all audio devices, the biggest benefactor of the change could be fully wireless earbuds like the aforementioned AirPods.<p>Two of the most common technical complaints levied toward devices like those are minuscule battery life and choppy connections. Trading the classic, power-hungry Bluetooth audio profile (dubbed A2DP) for BLE would seem to help with the former. Being able to send that stream to two earbuds simultaneously - instead the usual process of sending audio to one earbud, which then recycles it to the other - would seem to make the latter more reliable.</p><h2>Computers in your ear</h2><p>The underlying idea here is to further enable smart headphones. Earphones like the AirPods or Bragi Dash hint at the concept today, but the coming years are expected to bring a number of devices that aren't headphones so much as in-ear computers that also play music.</p><p>Many current "smart headphones" can track fitness stats and utilize digital assistants, as the Dash and others do today, but various audio firms are also working on ways to <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/pilot-smart-earpiece-translator-bluetooth-waverly-labs-indiegogo-2016-5" target="_blank">translate foreign languages</a> in real-time, or use <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/amazon-noise-cancelling-headphones-patent-2016-7" target="_blank">selective noise cancelling</a> that could shut off upon hearing certain keywords (like a name).</p><p></p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"></div><p></p></div></div>Features like these would seem to make smart headphones a natural fit for augmented reality devices, which let you see virtual elements on top of the real world. You'd have a computer on your face, and a computer in your ears to go with it. That future is far from reality today, but the audio world is actively <a href="http://www.innerfidelity.com/content/aes-headphone-technology-conference-summary#WbaMRl3b28DXEzIT.97" target="_blank">working toward it</a>, and major tech firms like Apple have already <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-iphone-7-airpods-master-plan-2016-9" target="_blank">laid the groundwork</a> for entering the market. Hearables would do a lot of processing, though, so they'd need an efficient connection to stream audio - be it music or a recreation of outside noises - for an extended period of time.<p>The SIG hopes Bluetooth low energy is what will allow for that. "We're trying to lay down a release that'll support the next 10 years of audio innovation," Hunn said.</p><h2>A technical challenge</h2><p>There are reasons to doubt hearables, though, beyond the obvious question of whether or not people will ever accept it as a concept.</p><p>For one, there are privacy concerns. As <a href="http://motherboard.vice.com/read/apple-deleting-the-iphones-audio-jack-is-good-news-for-marketing-companies" target="_blank">Motherboard recently noted</a>, a rise in Bluetooth low energy devices means more opportunities to track users via Bluetooth beacons, which can then be accessed by marketers eager to send you location-relevant ads. The <a href="https://www.bluetooth.com/news/pressreleases/2016/06/16/-bluetooth5-quadruples-rangedoubles-speedincreases-data-broadcasting-capacity-by-800" target="_blank">SIG itself</a> touts Bluetooth 5.0 as a way to "further propel the adoption and deployment" of said beacons.</p><p>Not all beacons are used for surveillance purposes, and it's possible to opt out of such tracking altogether, but a world where hearables and beacons are prevalent could make it easier for intrusive location tracking to take hold.</p><p></p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"></div><p></p></div></div>Aside from that, there are significant technical challenges to making BLE audio streaming work. For instance, what makes Bluetooth low energy "low energy" is its low duty cycles. It gives devices only a little bit of data at a time, then shuts off to conserve power. Audio, however, streams continuously. Maintaining an efficient connection when there's no way for that connection to "sleep" is tricky.<p>This focus on lower bandwidth could make it difficult to improve the quality of the audio itself.</p><p>"The challenge would be trying to stream high-quality audio over that link," said Jeff Hutchings, VP of product at Skullcandy. "You'd probably need a longer duty cycle, which would defeat some of the power savings. But I know they are working on that. And of course, as they continue to do better modulation and demodulation, and better codecs, I think that's definitely going to become a possibility in the future."</p><p></p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"></div><p></p></div></div>Indeed, Powell claimed a new slate of codecs and digital signal processors (DSPs) will allow BLE to get around its current audio hangups. Still, he also noted that the classic Bluetooth streaming profile will remain, and predicts many future audio devices - particularly lower-cost ones - will continue to use it. The move just furthers the SIG's effort to consolidate through BLE.<h2>Apple has a head start</h2><p>In some ways, the shift to BLE audio could allow other companies to catch up with some of the features Apple has rolled out with its <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-airpod-faq-2016-9" target="_blank">new W1 wireless chip</a>, which allows select Apple and Beats headphones to quickly pair with Apple devices over a special, simplified interface. It also lets them connect with multiple Apple devices simultaneously through iCloud.</p><p>While the iCloud-specific features are proprietary to Apple, both Powell and Hunn suspect Apple is using its own Bluetooth low energy core and custom codecs to do the smoother pairing. Powell said the SIG is currently working on techniques that'd let the open BLE standard enable a similar sort of fast pairing and connecting, which should come in an update "within the next year or two."</p><p></p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"></div><p></p></div></div>Apple also claims the W1 chip uses one-third the power of other wireless chips, allowing for better battery life, but right now the gains aren't terribly dramatic in context. That's likely because the AirPods and new Beats headphones still stream audio over the classic Bluetooth profile - that's why they're able to work with non-Apple devices. Bluetooth 5.0 and up, on the other hand, will require new hardware.<p>All of this suggests that Apple isn't breaking away from Bluetooth so much as it's using the W1 to get a jump start on the SIG's notoriously slow standards approval process.</p><p>"What Apple didn't have to deal with was all the politics of the SIG and making a standard that, instead of one company being able to use, hundreds of companies can use," Ratliff said. "They don't need a super flexible protocol that does everything; they only need one that does audio."</p><p>At the moment, the W1 is proprietary, and Apple is not licensing the tech to third parties. The company did not respond to multiple requests for comment on whether or not this will change going forward.</p><p></p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"></div><p></p></div></div>The switch to BLE audio could create a more level playing field in the near future, but it's possible that we're nearing a situation similar to what Apple does with Lightning today, where companies pay Apple a fee to use a solution that's more polished on its devices.<p>Both Powell and Hunn said the upcoming Bluetooth update is an extension of work that's been done with transmitting BLE audio to hearing aids, so it's worth noting that Apple has already developed a <a href="http://www.apple.com/accessibility/ios/hearing-aids/" target="_blank">proprietary take on that tech</a>, which the company <em>does</em> license to others.</p><h2>Bluetooth always says it'll get better next year</h2><p>In any case, the move shouldn't be unexpected. The SIG has put more and more focus on Bluetooth low energy with recent updates, the market for hearables has been bubbling for years, and Apple has always leveraged its vertically-integrated position to move faster than standards bodies allow.</p><p>Nevertheless, the SIG is hoping its Bluetooth 5.0 update will give the next wave of headphones a platform to build upon in earnest. Whether or not it'll finally work out Bluetooth's infamous kinks, though, is a question for the future.</p>

The people behind Bluetooth are planning some big changes for next year

<p><div class="image-container float_right" style="width:480px"><div class="image"><p class="source">Screenshot</p><p class="caption">The <keyword id="1764005" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="chromecast">Chromecast</keyword> dongle.</p></div></div>No one has quite figured out figured out Web-connected TV.</p>
<p>There are a bunch of options. Apple TV. Roku. And a bunch of television sets like Samsung's smart TVs that have streaming apps built in. They're all pretty much the same. None of them are perfect.</p>
<p><keyword id="6355629" type="CITY" weightage="60" keywordseo="Google">Google</keyword> is trying to simplify things a bit. Instead of releasing yet another Web-connected set-top box, it has the Chromecast, <a href="https://play.google.com/store/devices/details?id=chromecast">a $35 dongle</a> that plugs directly into your TV and sucks in content from your phone, tablet, or PC.</p>
<p>And with a few caveats, the Chromecast really, really good.</p>
<h2>How It Works</h2>
<p>The Chromecast is a two-inch long gizmo that's about the same size and shape as a USB thumb drive. It plugs directly into your TV's HDMI port and connects to the Internet using a WiFi connection. <span style="line-height: 1.5em;">From there, everything else is controlled with your computer, smartphone, or tablet. There's no normal remote control.</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">After a quick setup process using your PC, you'll notice almost no user interface except for a screen that says "Ready to cast." Now you're ready to beam videos from your Android device, iPhone, iPad, or Chrome Web browser on your computer.</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">From your computer, you can beam whatever is in your Chrome browser to the Chromecast by installing a tiny extension that sits in your browser's toolbar. Just click the extension's button and whatever appears in your Chrome browser will "mirror" to your TV in real time. It works with Web pages, YouTube videos, Google Docs, you name it. Think of it as a wireless HDMI cable between your PC and TV. (Unfortunately, I didn't have the best experience with this. More on that later.)</span></p>

<div id="ooyalaplayer" style="width: 800px; height: 450px;"> </div>
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<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"><br />But the best Chromecast experience comes from your smartphone or tablet, which let you seamlessly beam videos and music from apps to your TV.</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">The process works a bit differently than Apple's AirPlay. Instead of beaming video directly from your mobile device to your TV, you actually use your phone or tablet to trigger a signal to send the video over the Internet directly to the Chromecast. The advantage to this is you can still do other stuff on your phone or tablet while watching a video on Chromecast.</span></p>
<p>It's perfect.</p>
<p>I had no problem beaming Netflix and YouTube content from my iPhone, the new Moto X, and Google's new Nexus 7 tablet to the Chromecast. HD video looked excellent on my big screen TV, and there was no annoying buffering or lag. On the Android devices, I was able to play music and videos that I've purchased through the Google Play store. It's just easy.</p>
<p>And unlike Apple's AirPlay, you can still use your phone or tablet to do other stuff while watching a video on your Chromecast. AirPlay usually makes you keep the streaming app open on your iPhone or iPad, so you can't do anything else.</p>
<p>With Chromecast, Google created a content sharing system that's more accessible than what Apple pulled off with AirPlay. But it's not all roses and sunshine.</p>
<h2>Drawbacks</h2>
<p>I had a lot of trouble mirroring from my MacBook Air's Chrome browser to the Chromecast. It <em>technically</em> worked, but the experience was so bad for me that I simply gave up after several tries.</p>
<p>Even if I was just beaming a simple Web page, scrolling was very jerky. There was at least a one-second delay from the time I'd scroll through the page on my laptop to when the action would appear on my screen.</p>
<p>Video was much worse. One benefit of Chromecasting from your PC is that you can watch streaming sites like the free version of Hulu. But in my tests, watching Hulu and other embedded videos was a disaster. The audio was out of sync and video kept lagging to the point where the entire experience was unwatchable.</p>
<p>Part of this is probably because I was Chromecasting using an almost three-year-old MacBook Air and an even older router. In fact, the Chromecast browser extension alerted me that my experience was probably going to be bad because I was using outdated hardware. I tried using it with a newer Windows 8 laptop, but it wasn't much better. </p>
<p>If you want to Chromecast from your PC, you need to make sure you have a zippy Internet connection and a computer and router combination that's powerful enough to handle all that data.</p>
<p>Another drawback is the lack of app support on mobile devices. Right now, Chromecast only works with Netflix, YouTube, and music or video you own from the Google Play store for Android. (iPhone and iPad users can only use Netflix or YouTube with Chromecast.)</p>
<p>If Chromecast does take off, you can expect more apps to build in support. But for now Google is stuck with a chicken-or-the-egg problem. Chromecast won't be great without app support, but developers have little incentive to take time and work with the device unless it has plenty of users. Still, Netflix is a solid start, so hopefully its competitors follow suit.</p>
<p>Plus, there's arguably greater potential for Chromecast than Apple's AirPlay since it works with all major platforms. AirPlay only works with Apple devices.</p>
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
<p>Drawbacks aside, the Chromecast is a no-brainer if you don't already have Apple TV. You're getting much of the same AirPlay-like functionality for $64 less than Apple's device. Just know there's no guarantee that third-party streaming apps will add Chromecast support any time soon.</p>

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