14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft and Google are very likely to challenge each other in more market segments, as the Redmond-based software giant is believed to be working on a Chromecast-like device that could see daylight in the coming months.
While the company hasn’t publicly talked about such projects, a document spotted by WindowsPhoneDaily reveals that a so-called Microsoft HD-10 has already passed through FCC and could be unveiled anytime soon.
As many of Microsoft fanboys might know, Redmond is one of the companies that have invested heavily in Miracast support, a technology that allows users to share content between two devices through a wireless connection with just a few configuration settings.
Such functionality is already available in Windows Phone 8.1 through the “Project My Screen” option, but word is that Microsoft could introduce similar tech on both desktops and tablets in the next Windows updates.
Basically, by using Miracast you can project your phone’s or tablet’s screen to any wireless device, no matter if we’re talking about photos, videos, music. Thanks to such a dongle, Microsoft would make it possible for the second device to be a projector, a TV, or any other device with a screen and a USB port.
According to the aforementioned source, the current version of the device features Wi-Fi b/g/n and Wi-Fi Direct support, so streaming to a second display shouldn’t be too difficult because these are pretty much the most popular standards in use right now.
Miracast, on the other hand, is yet to gain traction, but Microsoft is aggressively pushing support for this service with every single update. Windows 8.1 August Update, which was officially introduced last week, also brings better support for Miracast in all devices getting the update, including tablets and PCs. This is undoubtedly another sign that Microsoft is looking into ways to continue investments in this area, so such a project would perfectly match the company’s plans.
As compared to Microsoft’s own project, Google Chromecast is already selling well, offering similar functionality to users who want to stream content to a TV from their phones and tablets.
One of the things that Microsoft should really consider is pricing, as the company needs to make the device as affordable as possible, especially because there are several similar products on the market offering almost the same features.
A Google Chromecast is currently available for only $35 (€26), but rumor has it that Microsoft might actually sell its device, if it really hits the market sometime in the near future, for approximately $50 (€37).