Google released it’s new TV streaming device Chromecast last week and the response has been overwhelming. The device has sold out on the Google Play store, with the current wait time being 2-3 weeks before it ships. At a price of $35 it’s no surprise that Chromecast is already a wild success, but one glaring drawback at the initial launch was a lack of content. Chromecast only debuted with Netflix and, of course, YouTube as official apps on its platform, leaving out some pretty major content to which customers have become accustomed. Well, that is apparently about to change. As reported by mashable.com:
“Google’s Chromecast already supports Netflix and YouTube, but soon it could also gain access to Hulu Plus and HBO Go.”
That would be a big deal for Google and the Chromecast team because when it comes to TV streaming devices, content is king. Not to mention that other devices like Apple TV already support apps from most of the other content providers, but Chromecast seems to have a vote of confidence from the content providers as they look to expand their networks to as many platforms as possible. As HBO spokeswoman, Laura Young, told Variety in a recent interview:
“We are actively exploring supporting Chromecast as another way for our subscribers to enjoy HBO Go, but at this point we can’t comment on specific plans regarding timing.” A Hulu representative also echoed those sentiments stating:
“At Hulu, we’re constantly innovating to provide our users with access to their favorite TV shows anytime, anywhere, on any device.”
This is exactly what Chromecast needs in order to provide value in the highly competitive TV streaming arena. Google knows this as they’ve already failed a couple times in their attempts to disrupt the TV market. But they have seemed to learn their lesson that content is just as important as technology. Aside from HBO and Hulu, Google is also said to be actively pursuing other content providers such as Vimeo, Redbox, and Pandora – all offerings they’ll need to be successful.
