Google has launched a $35 device that lets users stream Web content to their televisions. Here is all you want to know about the device:

1. Chromecast is a $35 HDMI/USB dongle powered by Chrome OS. It can stream content to your HDTV over WiFi and through a mobile device or a computer (with the Chrome browser).
2. No you can not stream local files to your TV using Chromecast, not yet at any rate.
3. Unless you are developing your own thing. Google has released the developer preview of the Google Cast SDK, which lets users enable their mobile and Web apps to cast content to the TV.
4. The Chromecast device can draw power from the HDMI port in your TV, if your television supports it. Otherwise you can use the USB cable or power cord.
5. You can connect a Chromecast device and start streaming almost instantly – all you need to do is plug the Chromecast device into a HDTV, connect it to WiFi, and start sending videos from a mobile device or computer.
6. Other users can use your Chromecast with their smartphone, tablet, or laptop without any additional setup.
7. Chromecast is not a substitute for Google TV, says Google.
8. Chromecast automatically updates to work with a growing number of apps.
9. If you own a laptop or a smartphone, Chromecast will work with them, and no additional purchase is necessary.
10. The Chromecast device has a height of 0.5 inches, is 1.4 inches wide, and has a depth of 2.8 inches. It weighs 0.1 pounds.
11. Chromecast has around 256k of memory and streams videos in 1080p or full HD.
12. At the time of writing, Chromecast is already sold out online in Amazon and Best Buy. It is not clear when they will get fresh stocks.  If you are ordering at Google Play, be prepared for a three to four week shipping period. The devices hit Best Buy stores on July 28th. Users get three months of free Netflix streaming with the purchase of Chromecast. International users will have to wait; Chromecast is only available in the US for now.

[Image courtesy: Google]