Chromecast turns a television into a simple streaming target

Chromecast is intentionally small and inexpensive. It plugs into HDMI, joins Wi-Fi, and lets a phone or browser choose what appears on the television.

The mobile device acts as a remote and handoff point rather than mirroring every pixel. Supported services can keep playing while the phone returns to other tasks.

Google is making streaming feel less like a new television interface and more like an extension of the screens people already own. Its success depends on app support and a reliable cast button.