Rumors have circulated that Google will unveil the second-gen Chromecast. Following this, reports of another uncofirmed Chromecast device have also been been filling online publications recently.
The other rumored device is believed to be the Chromecast Audio, which is also likely to be unveiled on Sept. 29, during Google's event to showcase Android Marshmallow as well as the new Nexus devices.
Chromecast Audio should not be confused with Google Cast for Audio, which is a platform that allows both computers and handhelds to broadcast audio or play music on Wi-Fi-equipped speakers, A/V receivers and soundbars that are on the same network using supported music players or a Chrome extension known as "Cast". However, if rumors are to be believed, Chromecast Audio will be the missing piece in the Chromecast universe.
According to 9to5Google, Chromecast Audio will fill the gaps by providing Wi-Fi connectivity to speakers that do not have on-board Wi-Fi adapaters. Speakers with a 3.5 mm headphone cable can be plugged directly into the rumored device.
In short, it is an external Wi-Fi adapter for older model speakers. Think of it as breathing new life to them, attaching a digital add-on to analog devices and making them usable in a mapped audio environment either through Chromecast or Google Cast for Audio.
The focus on audio and music is further solidified by the device's alleged codename, Hendrix, which is a reference to Jimi Hendrix, a rock guitarist, songwriter and singer that the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame describes as "arguably the greatest instrumentalist in the history of rock music."
Moreover, the rumor also claims that Chromecast Audio will have multi-room support. While it is yet unclear what the feature will do, a safe deduction would lead to multilple speakers with multiple external Wi-Fi adapters connecting to the same network.
Chromecast Audio is reported to also have support for Spotify, which is a likely possibility considering that it is mainly centered on audio and music.
Google is also expected to launch the new Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P from LG and Huawei on September 29.
Photo: Luiz Fernando | Flickr
