Chromecast Adds Hulu Plus With Competitors Hot On Its Heels

The hottest digital TV device is fending off challenges from its competitors by adding more content. With similar products from Mozilla and Roku breathing down its neck, Google’s Chromecast has added Hulu Plus to its list of apps, representing a significant increase in options.

The $35 dongle, which allows its users to stream web content to their TVs, was an extremely hot commodity upon its release, selling out almost immediately after it became available to the public. Six weeks later, a lot of the hubbub has died down, and one of the main complaints has been the device’s relatively sparse library of apps. Adding Hulu Plus moves Chromecast in the right direction, and Google VP of Product Management Mario Queiroz hinted that more partnerships may be coming soon. “We’re working with a lot of content partners,” he said.

The

addition of Hulu Plus is well timed. In the past week, reports have surfaced regarding a new Chromecast competitor from Mozilla and a new, revamped, sleeker offering from Roku. Both of these products are aiming at Chromecast’s holes: Mozilla’s device will feature mobile “tab casting”, and the new Roku combines a wide variety of third-party apps with a competitive price. By giving users another important channel, Chromecast is spackling some of those holes, while its dirt cheap price and easy YouTube support continue to make it a top choice.

Mozilla and Roku can try to claim Chromecast’s market share, but they will be hard-pressed to compete with the monster from Mountain View. It’s good to be Google.

Chromecast Adds Hulu Plus With Competitors Hot On Its Heels