Google take on Apple AirPlay and Sonos with Nexus Q wireless media streamer

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Alongside the Google Nexus 7 tablet, Google have unveiled the Google Nexus Q, a new wireless media streaming gadget compatible with Android devices using version Gingerbread and above. The system will let you stream Google Play Music, Google Play Movies and TV and YouTube to speakers around your home, and has Apple’s AirPlay and Sonos audio systems squarely in its sights.

Users can even have the touch-sensitive spheres make use of the Google Play Music app to create playlists from their music in the cloud then send them to the new device. Using the same processor as the Galaxy Nexus, Google promise the Nexus Q will boast an “audiophile” grade amplifier.

“The Nexus Q has built-in Wi-Fi and a built-in ethernet controller and lets you connect it to compatible speakers, AV system or HD TV,” says Google.

Multiple Nexus Q devices can be dotted around a home to give the same multi-room experience as a Sonos system, while more than one person at a time can control playback with a compatible device. Google deem this a social tool, though we see that feature causing more arguments than anything else!

On sale in the US for $299, there are no plans yet for a UK release.

Gerald Lynch
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2 comments

  • I can get a refurbished//used airport express for $50 and can hook it up to any existing stereo in my house.  Why would I buy this?  For $300 I can get a used ipod touch and 2-3 airport expresses to extend music throughout my house.  I was hoping Google would do better than this.

  • I can get a refurbished//used airport express for $50 and can hook it up to any existing stereo in my house.  Why would I buy this?  For $300 I can get a used ipod touch and 2-3 airport expresses to extend music throughout my house.  I was hoping Google would do better than this.

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