Google seems to have plans to move the worst thing about its remote TV controls, and it's the same thing that's horrible about so many controls: batteries.
Rather than rely on pesky replaceable cells, the new Google TV Remote Reference design from TW Electronics, the company that makes Google TV remote controls, includes a photovoltaic panel. This new light-powered remote can be self-recharging, meaning it will (hopefully) never run out of charge or need to replace its battery as long as it's getting enough light.
After the recent leak teased that a new Chromecast with Google TV is on the way, which is surely going to be a follow-up to the 4 Chromecast with Google TV with XNUMXK support, we're hoping this remote is what you'll be using. We also got to see the design adopted by Google TV screens from Hisense, TCL and their other partners.
Google's previous Chromecast isn't the best streaming device ever, but for the price it's pretty good, so there aren't too many upgrades we think this next iteration needs. That being said, an updated supervisor would be a huge improvement, as it removes another reason we need more single-use batteries.
We are excited to announce the launch of a self-recharging, battery-free #remote powered by indoor light. Developed with #Exeger, the device is already #GoogleTV ready and integrates easily into your existing system. Contact us for more details.#CES2023 #solarpower pic.twitter.com/pO1bycCC2bJanuary 12, 2023
Read more
The batteries are gone
I despise batteries. Well, more particularly, I hate disposable batteries, especially the ones found in remote TV controls.
This is because they are always spent in the most difficult moments. You then have to struggle to locate a spare only to realize you don't have AA batteries and coins, but you don't have the AAA batteries that you desperately need.
Then the same old pattern hits the mind: Find an underutilized device that also relies on AAA and take its cells for now. The plan works fine for a while until you use this technology now without a battery and you have to start the process all over again.
But even if this first part goes well, then you have to get rid of things.
You should not dispose of batteries with your other debris, but rather take them to a recycling center or local collection point so that the raw materials can be removed and reused.
Here in the UK the most recommended battery delivery points are the plastic bins found in most local grocery stores. While I can hardly remember carrying my bag for life when I go shopping, I now have a collection that will last more than thirty lifetimes. So instead I have a growing pyramid of dead batteries in my kitchen, a monument that bothers me every time I return from shopping.
And don't even get me started on the battery technology that doesn't include any in the box...
The whole situation would be much better if the items were rechargeable. And Google's solar-powered remote would go a step further because you don't even have to remember to plug it in: just hold the shades open throughout the day or turn on the lights and the thing will slowly replenish lost power.
We'll have to wait and see if TW Electronic's reference remote design becomes a physical factor, but I hope it does.
When the next Chromecast arrives (whether or not you use the new Google TV remote), be sure to ask our list of the best streaming services to find out where to find the best TV shows and movies.