Chinese tech brand Xiaomi has launched its new TV Stick HD (2nd Gen) in the UK, offering an affordable alternative to Amazon's Fire TV Sticks and Roku's popular streaming devices. Priced at £39.99, the device aims to help households stream films, live sports, and TV box sets with a fresh approach.
Design and Features
The Xiaomi TV Stick HD (2nd Gen) features a compact design that closely resembles its rivals, with a built-in HDMI connector that plugs directly into a TV without extra cables or complicated installation. It includes a dedicated remote control with shortcut buttons for popular streaming services such as Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube, making it easy to access content without scrolling through menus.
Powered by Google TV
The biggest difference from competitors is the operating system. Instead of Amazon's Fire OS or Roku's software, Xiaomi's streamer runs on Google TV. This provides access to Google's smart interface, built-in Google Assistant, and thousands of apps through the Google Play Store. With a dedicated voice button on the remote, viewers can search for films, shows, and apps using voice commands. Over 10,000 apps are available, including games, and hundreds of free channels offer entertainment without paid subscriptions. Android users also benefit from built-in Google Cast, allowing wireless streaming from smartphones or tablets to the TV.
Performance and Limitations
Under the hood, Xiaomi has equipped the streaming stick with a fast processor, dual-band Wi-Fi for smoother playback, and support for HDR10+, Dolby Audio, and DTS to enhance picture and sound quality. However, the main limitation is resolution: the TV Stick HD (2nd Gen) only supports HD playback, meaning it cannot stream content in 4K Ultra HD. For those seeking an affordable Google TV-powered streaming device, the Xiaomi TV Stick HD (2nd Gen) is available now in the UK for £39.99.
