Google Chromecast streams mobile data to TV and Apple devices

The $35 device will be a cause for concern for Apple in both the living room and boardroom

Google has unveiled a new television streaming device, which is also compatible with Apple mobile devices.

Alongside its unveiling of the new Nexus 7 tablet yesterday, Google premiered Chromecast, a 2in stick that plugs into a television's HDMI port and enables the user to engage content streaming, via a mobile device, from the cloud to the television.

What is most interesting in the ongoing ‘battle for the living room' between major hardware companies is that Google's $35 (£23) dongle is compatible with any branded mobile devices - including those manufactured by Apple. Apple's similar Apple TV hardware retails for $99, but only supports Apple devices.

Chromecast will have native support for YouTube, Netflix and Google Play media brands Movies, Music and TV.

Content does not stream directly from the device, but will take instructions from the user via a tablet computer, and will take content directly from the cloud to the dongle. A new "cast" button will appear on supported apps browsed on a mobile device.

Chromecast runs a simplified version of Google's Chrome OS, outputs video at 1080p and requires an external USB power adapter to run.

The device could be seen to supersede Google TV, Google's other current option for television streaming. It is a more conventional set-top box that performs a similar function - but with a much higher price tag - and also comes on a range of Sony-manufactured devices that cost about £200.

Google TV has also been built into some smart TVs, although Chromecast and Google's activities will almost certainly undermine manufacturer controlled smart TV "walled gardens".

Apple and Google are not the only companies playing with tablet-television interfacing. Microsoft introduced its SmartGlass application to the Xbox 360 gaming ecosystem last year, which performs the same functions as Chromecast.

Supported applications include Xbox Music, YouTube, Internet Explorer and Now TV, with a range of games software also enjoying added features with SmartGlass use.

Microsoft has stated continuing support for the SmartGlass service as its new Xbox One console launches in November 2013.