What you need to know
- Some first-generation Chromecast devices are no longer appearing in apps like YouTube and HBO Max.
- Google officially ended Chromecast support in 2023, but many apps continued working until now.
- Apps like Spotify and Disney+ still work, suggesting support is disappearing app by app.
It’s been over 13 years since Google introduced the first-generation Chromecast, and it looks like the device might finally be bidding adieu to all of us.
Despite being more than a decade old, the original Chromecast has remained a surprisingly good streaming device. In fact, it was the only Chromecast that didn’t really run apps or have a full interface — it simply cast content directly from your phone to the TV. And for just a $35 price tag back then, it ended up becoming a huge hit for Google.
Google officially ended support for the first-generation Chromecast back in 2023, but even after that, many apps continued working with it just fine. However, it now looks like the device may finally be reaching the end of the road.
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Some users on Reddit are reporting that their 2013 Chromecast no longer appears in apps like YouTube and HBO Max (via 9to5Google). Interestingly, some apps like Spotify and Disney+ still seem to work normally, but YouTube and HBO Max no longer show the first-generation Chromecast as an available casting device.
(Image credit: Sanuj Bhatia / Android Central)
It’s still unclear exactly why this is happening, since neither Google nor HBO has released any official statement, but it definitely feels like Google may have quietly pulled the plug on the original Chromecast.
Google had already warned users back in 2023 that owners of the original Chromecast “may notice a degradation in performance,” but it now seems like we’re finally seeing the real end of support. Google still hasn’t officially commented on the situation, but we’ll update this once the company says anything publicly.
Until then, there unfortunately isn’t much users can do. If you’re still using the original Chromecast from 2013, it might finally be time to upgrade to a newer Chromecast or switch to another streaming device altogether.
Android Central’s Take
Honestly, the original Chromecast still feels more elegant than a lot of streaming devices today. No ads, no remote, no bloated UI, just casting. It’s sad seeing Google quietly pull the plug on one of its simplest and best products.
