Google’s gaming console unveiled

Along with its announcement of Android 5.0 Lollipop, Google has unveiled its new line of Nexus devices, including a media and game console it calls the Nexus Player.

Google’s head of Android, Chrome and apps, Sundar Pichai wrote on the search giant’s blog that the Nexus Player is a collaboration between it and Asus and is the first device running Android TV.

Android TV is a version of Android 5.0 Lollipop designed to run on televisions.

The Nexus Player lets users play Android games on their high definition television with a gamepad, and keep playing on their phone while they’re on the road.

“Nexus Player is Google Cast Ready so you can cast your favorite entertainment from almost any Chromebook or Android or iOS phone or tablet to your TV,” Pichai said.

According to reports, the Nexus Player and remote control will cost $99 (US), and the optional game controller will cost an additional $40.

Pre-orders for the Nexus Player open on Friday, 17 October 2014.