As of Thursday afternoon, the beloved Chromecast with Google TV, both the 4K (2020) and HD (2022) models, have officially been discontinued in the US Google Store and was spotted by 9to5Google. The “No longer available” notice on the product listing confirms what many had anticipated since the unveiling of the new Google TV Streamer last August: the era of the affordable Chromecast dongle is over.
While Google had previously stated that the Chromecast with Google TV would remain on sale until inventory ran out, the swift disappearance of both models from the Google Store indicates that the end has come sooner than expected. This move solidifies Google’s strategic shift towards a more premium streaming experience with the Google TV Streamer, a device that boasts enhanced features and capabilities but comes at a significantly higher price point.
The discontinuation of the Chromecast with Google TV marks the end of an era for affordable streaming devices. At $49.99 for the 4K model and $29.99 for the HD version, these dongles offered an accessible entry point into the world of streaming, particularly for those who didn’t want to invest in a full-fledged smart TV or a more expensive streaming box. Their popularity stemmed from their simplicity, affordability, and seamless integration with the Google ecosystem.
Google’s official stance is that the demand for cheap streaming devices has diminished as even budget-friendly televisions now come equipped with built-in smart features. However, the enthusiastic response to the deeply discounted Chromecast HD at retailers like Best Buy, where it was recently listed for $14.99 in a clearance sale, suggests that the appetite for affordable streaming options remains strong.
For those still seeking a Chromecast with Google TV, third-party retailers might have some remaining inventory, but it’s likely to be limited and disappear quickly. Best Buy, for instance, currently lists the HD model as unavailable for in-store pickup, indicating dwindling stock.
Adding to the complexity, the Voice Remote for Chromecast with Google TV is also currently unavailable on the Google Store, though there’s an option to “Get notified” when it’s back in stock. While the Google TV Streamer Voice Remote can be purchased as an alternative, it lacks some of the functionalities of the older remote, such as “Find My Remote” and the customizable button shortcut, which are exclusive to the Google TV Streamer.
This transition leaves a gap in the market for those seeking a budget-friendly streaming solution with the Google TV experience. While the Google TV Streamer offers a compelling upgrade with its improved performance and features, its higher price tag might be a barrier for some consumers. It remains to be seen whether Google will introduce a more affordable streaming device in the future or focus solely on the premium segment with the Google TV Streamer.
Despite the discontinuation, Google assures users that existing Chromecast with Google TV devices will continue to receive software updates and support. The Android 14 update for these devices is still expected, although the exact timing remains uncertain.
The sunsetting of the Chromecast with Google TV marks a significant shift in Google’s streaming strategy. While the company’s focus on a more premium streaming experience with the Google TV Streamer is understandable, it also leaves a void for budget-conscious consumers. The coming months will reveal how this strategic shift will impact the streaming landscape and whether Google will address the demand for more affordable streaming options.
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