Photo credit: arstechnica.com
For those interested in updates regarding the recent issues with the second-generation Chromecast and Chromecast Audio, there is an ongoing support thread available in the official Google forums.
Ongoing Support for Second-Gen Chromecast
Google made the decision to cease support for its original Chromecast developed in 2013 after a decade of service. Thus, many anticipated the second-generation device might face a similar fate this year. However, Google did not announce any phasing out of the device, nor did it offer store credit for users to upgrade, which is a common practice when a product is discontinued. Instead, users experienced sudden interruptions when the device’s security certificate expired, leading to disappointment among its loyal fanbase.
Many users have expressed their frustration online regarding the unhelpful error messages displayed by the device.
Fans of the second-gen Chromecast are justifiably vocal in their displeasure, as the device has continued to sustain a sizable user base. Launched in 2015, it sold millions of units before being pulled from the shelves in 2019. The second-gen Chromecast remains efficient for those not requiring 4K streaming; its Wi-Fi capability, while not lightning-fast, still meets basic streaming needs, and TVs continue to support HDMI connections. Consequently, there are likely millions of these devices still in active use globally. Moreover, Google’s current offerings do not include a modern equivalent to the Chromecast Audio, which is still highly sought after, often fetching around $100 on resale platforms like eBay.
The appeal of the Chromecast lies in its simplicity. Unlike most Google devices, the Chromecast operates seamlessly without a cluttered interface filled with ads or the frustration of misplaced remotes. It connects easily via a smartphone, offering a straightforward user experience. While these devices have been around for several years, their reliability has prompted many users to resist discarding them. The ongoing dissatisfaction surrounding the recent outage highlights how much users value this dependable streaming solution.
There is some optimism for fans of the legacy Chromecast, as Google has reassured users through Ars Technica that it remains committed to supporting these devices. Despite any prior intentions, the company is actively working to resolve the certificate issue, suggesting that the second-gen Chromecast could continue to have a valuable presence in the market. Google’s statement, “We still support Chromecast v2,” reinforces this commitment.
While the length of this support remains uncertain, it’s clear that the second-gen Chromecast has already outlasted its predecessor and continues to hold significance within the streaming landscape.
Source
arstechnica.com