Google is reportedly working on a second-generation Google TV Streamer, with plans to introduce hands-free voice commands, presence detection and improved performance as part of a significant hardware refresh.

According to 9to5Google, the upcoming streaming device will retain much of the existing model’s design, although it is expected to feature a slightly narrower body and several new capabilities aimed at making televisions more convenient to use.

One of the biggest changes could be the addition of built-in microphones, allowing users to control their television without picking up the remote.

Microphone openings are reportedly being incorporated into the device’s sloping, pill-shaped exterior, enabling users to activate Google Assistant using the familiar “Hey Google” command.

This would allow viewers to search for movies, launch apps, control playback and ask questions using voice commands directed at the streaming device itself.

Another significant addition is presence sensing, which could allow the Google TV Streamer to automatically respond when someone enters or approaches a room.

For example, the television could activate a Google Photos screensaver when someone walks into the room before switching to an ambient information display showing the time, weather and other details as they move closer.

TCL has already introduced similar functionality in a Google TV product, but integrating the technology into Google’s own streaming hardware could bring the feature to a wider audience.

The new streamer is also expected to receive a faster processor and increased onboard storage, improving responsiveness and providing additional space for apps.

The current Google TV Streamer offers 32GB of storage, although the capacity of the next-generation model and details of its processor have yet to be revealed.

Google is reportedly making fewer changes to the remote control, retaining its existing design while introducing two additional shortcut buttons alongside the dedicated YouTube and Netflix controls.

The Find My Remote button will also remain on the rear of the streaming device, allowing users to locate a misplaced remote.

The reported upgrades come after Google increased the price of its existing TV Streamer by US$50 in August, raising questions about how the next-generation model will be positioned.

While the improved hardware and additional smart features could help justify a higher price, there is currently no indication of what Google intends to charge for the new device.

Google has also remained silent on a potential launch date.
The company previously took four years to transition from the Chromecast with Google TV 4K to the current Google TV Streamer, although there is no indication that the next upgrade will follow a similar timetable.

If the reported features make it into the finished product, Google’s next streaming device could represent a substantial step beyond conventional media playback, turning the television into a more responsive smart home hub.

For now, however, the new hardware remains unannounced, with pricing, availability and final specifications still to be confirmed.