Google has recently made an announcement that may disappoint owners of the first-generation Chromecast. The tech giant has officially ended support for the inaugural Chromecast device, signaling an end to software and security updates for the device. Although this news may come as a disappointment to some, it’s worth noting that the first-gen Chromecast enjoyed an impressive run of nearly 10 years of support, which is commendable in the ever-evolving world of consumer electronics.
With the discontinuation of support, users of the first-generation Chromecast may experience a degradation in performance, Google has warned. The last firmware update, version 1.36.159268, was released in November 2022 and included bug fixes and improvements. However, this update marked the first one in over three years, indicating that the device had already been transitioning toward the end of its update cycle.
The first-generation Chromecast, often remembered as a key-shaped device, boasted an HDMI port on one end and a micro-USB port on the other for power, with an adapter included. It was a budget-friendly option, thanks to its modest specifications such as 512 MB of RAM and 2 GB of storage. Interestingly, the model number, H2G2-42, was a nod to The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, referencing the “Answer to the Ultimate Question of Life, the Universe, and Everything.”
Following the success of the first-gen Chromecast, Google introduced subsequent models, including the puck-shaped second-generation Chromecast, the Chromecast Audio, and the Chromecast Ultra. However, with the arrival of the third-generation Chromecast in 2018, Google shifted its focus to the Google TV platform, leading to the discontinuation of the Chromecast line.
While users of the first-generation Chromecast can continue to use the device, it’s important to note that without software support, performance may be impacted over time. Alternatively, users have the option to upgrade to one of the newer Chromecasts with Google TV. The 1080p model, priced at $29.99 and featuring Android 12-based Android TV software, received a recent update introducing app hibernation mode to free up storage space. Another option is the 4K Chromecast with Google TV, available for $42.99, which is expected to receive updates for a longer period due to its more recent launch in September 2022.
As technology progresses, it is not uncommon for older devices to reach the end of their support lifecycle. While the first-generation Chromecast may no longer receive updates, Google continues to innovate with new products and technologies, ensuring that users have access to the latest features and advancements in the world of streaming and entertainment.
