Google launches Chromecast, a low-cost TV dongle

SAN FRANCISCO, USA: Google has announced a low-cost competitor to Apple TV - a "dongle" device called Chromecast.

The dongle is plugged into a television's HDMI port, and allows users to stream media from smartphones, tablets and computers.

Launching immediately in the US, the device will cost $35 (£23). There is as yet no word on international launches.

Google also announced an upgraded Nexus 7 tablet, the first to run the new version of the Android system.