Chromecast remote’s volume buttons get it right, while Google TV streamer feels like a downgrade, plus Quick Share on Android adds transfer progress

Google’s new Google TV Streamer has some noticeable improvements, but its remote design—especially the placement of the volume buttons—feels like a step back. Many users, myself included, feel that the original Chromecast remote handled volume control more effectively.

The first Chromecast with Google TV introduced a remote that was simple yet functional. It featured eight buttons, a navigation pad on the front, and two volume buttons conveniently placed on the side. This side-button design, although polarizing, received praise from users who liked its ergonomic feel and ease of use. Others, however, thought volume buttons should be more visible on the top of the remote.

After trying out the Google TV Streamer in my main entertainment spaces, I realized just how functional the side volume buttons were on the Chromecast remote. The Chromecast’s remote, with its rounded base, allowed for a steady grip when adjusting volume, even if the remote wasn’t lifted entirely off the surface. On the Google TV Streamer’s remote, however, the volume buttons have been moved to the top, making it less stable. When adjusting the volume, this design makes the remote wobble, requiring you to pick it up fully each time. Though the new remote includes some helpful upgrades like a dedicated shortcut button, this design change detracts from its overall usability.

Overall, I feel Google made the wrong call by changing the volume button placement. I’d love to know if others prefer the new design or miss the side-mounted volume controls from the original Chromecast remote.

In other news, Android’s file-sharing feature, Quick Share (previously known as “Nearby Share”), now provides a more transparent view of transfer progress. Previously, the sender could see the exact percentage of file transfer completion, but the receiver only had a progress ring. Now, Quick Share shows the transfer percentage directly on the recipient’s device screen, offering clearer feedback on how much longer the transfer might take. This update is now widely available across various devices, including Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy models.

While small files may transfer too quickly for you to notice the percentage, it’s especially useful for larger files, like videos, where knowing the progress can save you time and provide better insight. This update might seem minor, but it’s a helpful addition that makes Android’s sharing experience just a bit more user-friendly.