S Poddar
Google has officially discontinued selling the Chromecast with Google TV, both the 4K and HD versions, on its US online store. As of Thursday afternoon, the product listing now shows a “No longer available” message, marking the end of availability through Google’s direct sales channel.
Earlier this week, some color variants of the Chromecast with Google TV were still listed, but now the entire lineup has been pulled from the store. The 4K version, released in 2020, and the more budget-friendly HD variant, introduced in 2022, were priced at $49.99 and $29.99, respectively. These models were significantly cheaper than their intended successor, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.
Google previously made an announcement that Chromecast sales would be carried out until supplies run out after announcing its latest streaming device, the Google TV Streamer, in August. The company may have discontinued selling it, but users can be assured of receiving support and updates on their product. Many, however, remain holding out for the long-awaited Android 14 update, which is yet to arrive.
Google’s move to discontinue the Chromecast with Google TV comes in line with its perception that standalone streaming devices are no longer as needed. Even the lowest-end smart TVs now come with built-in streaming, and as such, there has been less need for external streaming dongles. The release of the new streaming box basically signals the end of the Chromecast brand in its original sense.
For anyone still interested in buying a Chromecast with Google TV, a few third-party sellers might still have some left in stock. Best Buy, for instance, now has the HD model on sale for a mere $14.99 during a clearance event. It is no longer an option for buying in stores, however, another sign that existing inventory is running low.
Meanwhile, the Voice Remote for Chromecast with Google TV is currently unavailable for purchase, though Google provides a “Get notified” option for those who want updates on its availability. Alternatively, customers can opt for the Google TV Streamer Voice Remote. However, features like “Find My Remote” and the customizable shortcut button are exclusive to the Google TV Streamer and will not function with older Chromecast models.
Google’s move to discontinue Chromecast with Google TV marks the end of an era for one of its most popular streaming devices. While Chromecast once revolutionized how people streamed content by offering an affordable and compact solution, the company is now shifting its focus toward more integrated streaming solutions. Until now, Chromecast enthusiasts will be forced to settle for available stock at third-party stores or upgrade to the current Google TV Streamer if they desire the latest features and compatibility.
As the streaming market evolves, Google’s media consumption strategy is also changing. With smart TVs currently ruling the market, the company’s focus on software-based solutions as opposed to individual hardware mirrors overall industry trends. While some loyal Chromecast users might be left disappointed, Google’s new streaming innovations are set to deliver a more integrated and feature-packed experience for the future.
