The Chromecast with Google TV has been one of Google’s most popular hardware products since its initial release. However, it was discontinued last year and replaced by the Google TV Streamer.

For fans of the original device, the Thomson Cast 150 presents an appealing alternative, provided it can be found for purchase. The primary strength of the Chromecast with Google TV was its user-friendliness.

This plug-and-play device connected easily to an HDMI port and power source, quickly providing access to various streaming apps. Users could enjoy the complete range of Android TV and Google TV apps available on the Play Store, enhanced by Google Assistant.

Its affordability made both the standard and 4K versions of the device accessible to a wider audience. While the new Google TV Streamer is a viable option, it diverges significantly from its predecessor.

The new model has adopted a traditional set-top box design and comes at a higher price point—twice that of the Chromecast with Google TV. With no immediate plans for a similar dongle, the responsibility for alternatives falls to third-party manufacturers.

Enter the Thomson Cast 150, a device crafted to embody the spirit of the Chromecast with Google TV. It retains the compact, dongle-like design and supports 4K content playback, making it a fitting replacement.

The Cast 150 boasts a quad-core Cortex A35 processor, 2GB of RAM, and 8GB of storage, sufficient for running most streaming apps. It also supports advanced audio and video formats such as Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision.

Notably, its voice remote includes new features like a dedicated “Live TV” button. Despite its promising features, availability may pose a challenge.

Thomson primarily operates in Europe, which may restrict access for US customers. Although importing the Thomson Cast 150 is an option, doing so could lead to additional costs that remain uncertain.

Ultimately, the entry of more brands into this market segment could help to fill the void left by the discontinued Chromecast with Google TV.