After weighing my options for several months concerning the big decision to "cut the cord" I finally settled on a Chromecast Version 2 for my choice to make my phone my new remote control!
The Chromecast 2nd generation is different in it's basic design from the original launch product. However, the new design makes the device a much better conduit to make your dumb TV into a smart TV.
The only difficulty I had with the device is that when I first installed it I was having trouble with lost signals after just a few seconds. I remedied this problem by pulling the Chromecast disc out to the side giving it more exposure to my household wifi signal. After I made this adjustment it has worked flawlessly. You could make the same adjustment if you are having similar trouble by using a bit of duct tape to hold it in a receptive position.
This is an excellent review video by Jim's Review Room. He points out that the Chromecast works on android as well as Apple.
It's considerably faster than the first version. It works beautifully with Netflix, Hulu and Youtube. Chrome now has several apps that can be downloaded to your device to make your viewing experience even more enjoyable.
Jim's Review Room recommends the fabulous Chromecast 2 as it is also well priced at around $35!
Thinking of cutting the cable? Get the 2nd Generation Chromecast!