Google Plans To Add Free Channels To Chromecast Platform

JAKARTA – Chromecast and other devices powered by Google TV may give users access to free television channels in the future. According to Protocol, Google has been in talks with ad-supported free streaming television providers about the possibility of adding their channels to its smart TV platform.

The channels usually have a similar feel to traditional TV, and the show will be interrupted by commercial breaks. Protocol also says Chromecast users may be able to browse the live channels available to them via a special menu similar to YouTube TV.

Meanwhile, smart TVs supported by the platform may display free channels alongside other over-the-air programming accessible with the antenna. The publication says it's similar to how companies like Samsung present free TV offerings on their own platforms.

Samsung's free TV service has become so popular, other companies (including Roku and Amazon) have also started giving their customers access to hundreds of free channels.

Adding linear programming to Google TV could help make Chromecast and operating system-powered smart TVs a more attractive option for cord-cutters (pay-tv services).

Google could officially launch free streaming channels as soon as this fall, though Google could also wait to announce the feature until its smart TV partners are ready to do so next year too.

Protocol also says that while it's unclear what channels are going to the platform at this point, Google is likely to strike a deal that will give him access to "dozens of free channels" all at once!