Google is discontinuing Chromecast, one of the simplest and cleanest streaming dongles. The search giant has indicated it will continue to support some of the iterations with software and security updates.
Why is Google discontinuing Chromecast?
Google launched the Chromecast dongle more than a decade ago. The company confirmed it has officially sold more than 100 million devices.
Moving forward, anyone interested in purchasing a Chromecast dongle will have to hurry. Google has confirmed it is discontinuing Chromecast.
Google indicated it has ceased production of the miniature streaming device that slots inside an HDMI port on a TV. Chromecast will now only be available while supplies last, which means the remaining devices could be picked up quickly.
Goodbye, Chromecast. Here’s my 6-second unboxing from 2013. pic.twitter.com/1gKvXhsNY2
— Lance Ulanoff (@LanceUlanoff) August 6, 2024
Chromecast isn’t a full-fledged Android streaming dongle. Google has openly acknowledged that the purpose of the dongle was to simplify the process of connecting a TV with a phone, tablet, or laptop.
“Chromecast was a simple and affordable way to cast your favorite online content right on your TV screen. It was as easy as plugging in the device and hitting play. Chromecast’s small dongle form factor made it easy to hide behind a TV, and the affordable price made it accessible to millions and the perfect gift for many.”
Google indicated it was discontinuing Chromecast primarily because the technology is now natively available in nearly every smart TV. Televisions now have Android OS, which supports streaming apps and services. Hence, these TVs simply do not need another device merely to bridge the gap or accept streaming content from another device.
Google TV Streamer to replace discontinued dongle
Google has reportedly assured that it will continue to push software and security updates to its newer devices. The company hasn’t confirmed which iterations qualify for the extended software support.
This ChromeCast with GoogleTV device is probably the best thing I have bought in recent times. I am running AppleTV and my VPN apps on it. It is slick and smooth. My kids love it more than the AppleTV now. pic.twitter.com/7iQApZJi8c
— Osaretin Victor Asemota (@asemota) July 31, 2024
Even before discontinuing Chromecast, Google announced Google TV Streamer, which will officially launch next month. The new device is essentially a miniature set-top box.
It is important to note that the Google TV Streamer will retail at $99.99. The Chromecast dongle, on the other hand, currently sports an MSRP of $29.99. Despite being rudimentary, the Chromecast dongle acts as an all-in-one streaming hub. Perhaps ending Chromecast was the fastest way for Google to sell a pricier version.
2024-08-07 15:07:51