Google to Discontinue Chromecast Line

In a Tuesday announcement, Google revealed that it is discontinuing the Chromecast line after over ten years of selling the popular streaming dongles.

Despite this, Chromecast devices will still be available “while supplies last,” and Google has committed to continuing software and security updates for newer devices, though specific models were not mentioned. The latest update in the lineup was the Chromecast with Google TV, released in 2022.

Google noted that since the original Chromecast’s debut in 2013, technology has evolved significantly. “We invested heavily in embedding Google Cast technology into millions of TV devices, including Android TV,” the company stated. “We are taking the next step in evolving how streaming TV devices can add even more capabilities to your smart TV, built on top of the same Chromecast technology.”

Replacing the Chromecast, Google has introduced the $99.99 Google TV Streamer, set to launch on September 24th. This new set-top box boasts significant upgrades over the Chromecast with Google TV, including a processor that is 22 percent faster and integration with Thread and Matter.

While the Google TV Streamer represents a major upgrade and could potentially rival the more expensive Apple TV 4K, it is unfortunate that Google is discontinuing its affordable dongle. The Chromecast with Google TV, priced at just $29.99, provided an accessible entry point to an all-in-one streaming hub.