Google ended Chromecast production in August 2024 because it said streaming and smart TVs had become commonplace, while Google Cast was already built into millions of televisions and other devices. The announcement ended production, not support for every existing Chromecast: Google said its support policy was unchanged and that its latest devices would continue to receive software and security updates.
Why did Google discontinue Chromecast?
Google’s stated reason was that the smart-TV streaming market had changed since Chromecast launched. The original device made it easier to get online video onto a television at a time when many TVs had few apps and casting from a phone or computer could be cumbersome. By 2024, streaming and smart TVs were much more widespread, and Google Cast technology was integrated into millions of TVs and other devices. Google presented the decision as an evolution of the product category, not as a response to a stated failure.
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On August 6, 2024, Google said it was ending Chromecast production and would sell remaining units while supplies lasted. The company reported that more than 100 million Chromecast devices had been sold over an 11-year production run; that is Google’s own cumulative figure, not an independently audited total. Google’s announcement and Chromecast history explain its public rationale.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsDid Google stop supporting existing Chromecast devices?
No. Google said the production decision did not change its support policy for existing devices and that the latest Chromecast devices would continue to receive software and security updates. Ending production means Google stopped making the line; it does not mean every Chromecast stopped working or lost support on the announcement date. The cited announcement does not give a separate, model-by-model support end date, so it should not be read as a guarantee of indefinite updates.
#1 Best Overall
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
What replaced Chromecast?
Google named Google TV Streamer as Chromecast’s successor. It was presented as a faster, more premium 4K streaming device that carries forward Chromecast features while expanding the on-device entertainment experience. Unlike the compact Chromecast dongle concept, Streamer is positioned as a streaming device with additional smart-home capabilities, including Matter connectivity and a built-in Thread border router. Google announced it at a U.S. launch price of $99.99 in August 2024; that is a launch-era price, not a statement of its current price or availability. See Google’s Google TV Streamer announcement for the launch details.
Was Chromecast discontinued because it sold poorly?
Google’s public explanation does not establish that poor sales, unprofitability, production costs, or another financial problem caused the decision. The company reported more than 100 million devices sold, but that company-reported cumulative figure alone cannot explain its internal business considerations. What Google did say was that the market had evolved and that it was moving to a next-generation streaming device with broader entertainment and smart-home features.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
Rank #4
- Expand your home entertainment without buying a new TV; Google Chromecast lets you stream your favorites from your phone, tablet, or laptop; no remote needed
- Chromecast is easy to set up up; just plug it in, connect to Wi-Fi, and start streaming to turn your TV into a smart TV; it works with almost any TV that has an HDMI port
- Works with the apps you already know and love; enjoy shows, movies, music, games, sports, photos, live TV, and more from over 2,000 streaming apps in up to 1080p
- With Chromecast, you can stream, pause, play, or adjust the volume right from your phone with just a tap; while you’re streaming, you can still use your phone as you normally do
- Mirror your laptop screen or turn your tablet into an even better entertainment system; surf the web or see your media on the big screen
Rank #3
- Watch the entertainment you love with Chromecast with Google TV, including live TV in up to 4K HDR; discover over 700,000 movies and TV episodes, plus millions of songs
- Get fast streaming, and enjoy a crystal clear picture up to 4K and brighter colors with HDR
- Your home screen displays movies and TV shows from all your services in one place with Chromecast 4K; get personal recommendations based on your subscriptions, viewing habits, and content you own
- Press the Google Assistant button on the remote and use voice search to find specific shows, youtube tv streaming, or search by mood, genre, actress, and more; control the volume, switch inputs, play music, and get answers, hands-free
- Chromecast is easy to install and compatible with almost any TV that has an HDMI port; to get started, just plug it into your TV’s HDMI port, connect to Wi-Fi, and start streaming
Rank #2
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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