Walmart's ongoing expansion in the streaming device market has sparked speculation about a potential new, cheaper Google TV streamer. The recent discovery of an 'Onn Full HD Streaming Device' through the FCC filings has raised questions about Walmart's future plans. This device bears a striking resemblance to the company's existing $14 Onn Google TV Full HD Streaming Device from 2023, suggesting that the upcoming release might not be a significant hardware upgrade but rather a strategic shift in manufacturing and production locations.
The key points of interest here are the involvement of different manufacturing partners and the relocation of production from Vietnam to Mexico. Both Luxshare and Skyworth are known for producing Google TV hardware, and this change could be a strategic move to diversify supply chain partners rather than an indication of improved specifications or new features. Walmart's recent launch of the Onn 4K Streaming Stick at $39.98 positions it as a compact Google TV option, and the potential introduction of a cheaper Full HD model could further expand their Google TV lineup.
This development is particularly intriguing given Walmart's acquisition of Vizio in 2024. Despite this acquisition, Walmart remains committed to Google TV for its streaming devices, indicating a continued focus on the Google TV platform. The company's decision to keep Vizio's SmartCast platform off standalone streaming hardware suggests a strategic alignment with Google's ecosystem. This alignment is further emphasized by the potential introduction of a broader Google TV lineup, which could span budget-friendly 1080p streaming options to more advanced 4K hardware.
In conclusion, the emergence of the 'Onn Full HD Streaming Device' through FCC filings has sparked speculation about Walmart's future plans for a cheaper Google TV streamer. The device's similarity to the existing 2023 model and the involvement of different manufacturing partners suggest a strategic shift rather than a major hardware upgrade. Walmart's commitment to Google TV and its ongoing expansion in the streaming device market position the company to offer a diverse range of Google TV options, catering to various consumer preferences and budgets.
