Chromecast is beloved (by some) because of its sheer simplicity. To cast a show to your TV, you just use your phone and nothing else is needed. That said, it seems I am not the only heretic who wanted Google to offer another way to use Chromecast.

This news comes from 9to5Google, which reports that a new Chromecast Ultra that uses both Android TV and a remote control is in development at Google. Codenamed Sabrina, it will thankfully keep the Chromecast Ultra's appealing 4K HDR content and Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity for casting.

I'm all for these changes. I'm not a big fan of these changes, because I always keep my phone away while streaming to focus on what I'm watching and not touching Twitter or other apps. While the device will retain its casting capabilities, I've always wanted the Chromecast to be more of an independent device. This version does exactly that, allowing me to open apps on my Android TV instead of always needing my laptop or phone.

And while the Chromecast Ultra's dangling dot-shaped dongle design (down to the soft finish and G logo) will remain intact, this new model will include an external remote control. The report cites "reliable sources familiar with the company's plans" and claims that this "external remote control controls the device and resembles a cross between a Daydream View remote control and an Apple TV remote control."

The remote not only has a Google Assistant button and a microphone for listening to commands, but is also programmable to the TV, presumably to execute commands to adjust volume and other options.

Why is Google adjusting the Chromecast family? The new devices are intended to give Android TV a more mainstream consumer streaming device for the living room, as the gamer-focused Nvidia Shield TV is a bit specialized.

This Android TV Chromecast Ultra may have been scheduled to be unveiled at Google I/O 2020, but that event was canceled due to coronavirus concerns. It is still possible that it will be revealed during I/O in May 2020 if Google chooses to do a live stream only showcase.