Acer Expands Into Google TV Box Market With New 4K UHD Device

Acer, widely recognized for its products in display technology, laptops, and Chromebooks, has made an unexpected entry into the Google TV box market with the release of its new Acer 4K UHD Google TV Box. This device has recently appeared for pre-order in South Africa, marking the brand’s first foray into this segment and signaling an expansion beyond its traditional product categories.

The Acer 4K UHD Google TV Box is designed to bring 4K smart TV functionality to any standard television, offering users a straightforward and versatile streaming solution. The box itself features a minimalist, square white design adorned with Acer’s logo. Accompanying the device is a similarly styled remote control that includes all the expected buttons, as well as dedicated shortcuts to popular apps such as YouTube, YouTube Music, Netflix, and Prime Video.

One key differentiator for the Acer box is its comprehensive array of connectivity options. The device is equipped with seven ports, more than typically found on competing models. These include two USB-C ports (with one intended for power supply), a USB-A port, HDMI, Ethernet, microSD, and S/PDIF Optical Audio. The inclusion of optical audio is noteworthy, as it is a rare feature in this class of products and offers added flexibility for users seeking higher-fidelity audio connections.

In terms of technical specifications, the Acer 4K UHD Google TV Box is powered by a quad-core Amlogic S905X5 processor paired with a Mali-G310 GPU. It supports advanced features such as super-resolution upscaling and is compatible with Wi-Fi 6, ensuring fast and stable wireless connections for streaming content.

There is some uncertainty regarding the device’s RAM, with press information citing 3 GB, while the South Korean section of Acer’s website lists it with 2 GB. Either configuration places the device in a competitive spot in the market of budget-friendly streaming boxes.

At present, the Acer 4K UHD Google TV Box is available exclusively for pre-order in South Africa, priced at the equivalent of $79. Details about a wider international release, including potential availability in markets like Portugal, have not yet been announced. This launch marks Acer’s entry into a new product category, underscoring the company’s intention to diversify its offerings in the smart home and entertainment segments.