Own a Chromecast? Google issues important update for all owners
GOOGLE PRESS OFFICE
Change to an obscure support page suggested that (almost) all Chromecasts would lose-out on critical software updates
Don't Miss
Most Read
Latest
Google has halted software updates for (almost) every Chromecast device. At least, that was the rumour that spread like wildfire online in recent days.
The panic started when an obscure Support Page for Google Nest devices was updated, seemingly confirming that Google was planning to stop software updates for a long list of Chromecast devices – cutting them off from new features, bug fixes, and design refreshes.
The models listed as no longer receiving critical security updates were:
- Chromecast (2nd Gen)
- Chromecast Audio
- Chromecast Ultra
- Chromecast (3rd Gen)
- Chromecast with Google TV (4K)
The decision to cull support for these devices was spotted by the eagle-eyed team at Android Authority, where it was picked up by a slew of other blogs and social media accounts.
The loss of critical security updates is a seismic shift for device owners. Without these updates, glitches in the software can be exploited by hackers for the foreseeable future – leaving device owners exposed.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Thankfully, Chromecast owners can breathe a sigh of relief as the change was an accident.
A spokesperson for the Mountain View-based company told PC Mag that it's not cutting "critical security updates” for Chromecast devices, and instead that the “support article in question incorrectly indicated deprecation of software support for legacy Chromecast devices.”
“Google is not ending support for Google Chromecasts, and the support page has since been updated with the latest and most accurate information," the spokesperson added.
The Californian company has already confirmed that, having shipped 100 million devices worldwide, it won't be releasing any new additions to its much-loved Chromecast line-up. But it seems like those who still rely on a Chromecast to stream their favourite shows, films, and sports will continue to receive critical updates.
Google has previously promised that it would honour a minimum of five years for software support. With confirmation that support isn't going anywhere for these ageing Chromecast devices, Google is overdelivering on critical bug fixes and new features for viewers.
Every device has a lifespan. Companies eventually cut off older hardware to avoid ageing components from holding back the rollout of new features or apps for the rest of the lineup. For example, most flagship Android smartphones guarantee software updates for 5 - 7 years after the launch, ensuring that you'll have access to the latest tricks and features for a decent amount of time after pocketing a new handset.
Streaming set-top boxes tend to have even longer life-cycles, since viewers rarely replace these with a newer model. Despite the panic caused by the update to its Support Pages, it's a relief to see that Google will ensure Chromecast owners can keep streaming for months to come.