A Sudden Change for Google Meet Users
In a move that’s likely to catch many by surprise, Google appears to be preparing to discontinue support for Google Meet on both Android TV and Google TV platforms. The app, which first made its debut on these platforms during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, allowed users to make video calls directly through their TV screens. While it wasn’t the most widely used application, its convenience for virtual meetings and connecting with family members made it a niche favorite for some users.
A Brief History of Google Meet on Android TV
Google Meet, originally known as Google Duo, became available on Android TV OS in 2020. This launch coincided with a period when people were increasingly seeking ways to connect with others remotely. With the ability to connect a webcam to a TV, users could host or join video calls from the comfort of their living rooms, taking advantage of a larger screen and better sound systems. This setup was especially useful for families, educational purposes, and even small business meetings.
However, just a few years later, the app’s days on these platforms may be numbered.
What the Code Tells Us
According to Android Authority, recent code found in the latest Google Meet update for Android TV and Google TV clearly indicates that the app will be deprecated soon. The specific message mentions, “Soon you won’t be able to use Google Meet on your Android TV to make calls. Click below for alternatives and to learn more.”
This notice isn’t active within the app yet, but its presence suggests that Google has already made the decision to phase out support. The move comes as a bit of a shock considering that, earlier this year, Google TV added support for “Call Notifications,” which Meet was supposed to facilitate.
What This Means for Current Users
The potential shutdown of Google Meet on Android TV and Google TV means that users who relied on this service for video calls will need to find alternative solutions. As of now, it’s unclear what these alternatives will be, but the app’s impending deprecation could create a gap for users who used their TV for video conferencing.
This change also raises questions about Google’s broader strategy for TV-based apps and services. Is this a sign of a larger shift away from supporting video conferencing on TV platforms? Or is Google simply narrowing its focus to push users towards using their mobile devices and desktops for these services?
Google Meet’s Evolution
Google Meet has undergone numerous changes in its short lifespan. What started as Google Duo was rebranded and integrated into Google Meet in 2020, combining features of both apps into a single platform aimed at simplifying Google’s video conferencing solutions. During the pandemic, video calling apps like Meet saw a surge in usage as people worked and studied from home. However, as life returns to a more hybrid or in-person norm, Google’s focus seems to be shifting away from supporting multiple platforms and instead prioritizing its core offerings.
Google’s History of App Discontinuations
Google has a history of sunsetting services that no longer align with its vision or fail to capture a large user base. From the termination of Google Hangouts to the phasing out of the Google Play Music app, the tech giant isn’t afraid to pull the plug when an app’s popularity wanes or when there’s a strategic shift. The discontinuation of Meet for Android TV and Google TV could simply be another case of this strategy in action.
Why Is Google Pulling Support?
There could be several reasons behind Google’s decision to phase out Google Meet from Android TV and Google TV:
- Low Usage: It’s possible that the number of users accessing Google Meet through their TVs was relatively small. Unlike smartphones and laptops, TVs aren’t the primary devices most people turn to for video conferencing, which could have led to underwhelming user engagement.
- Platform Prioritization: Google may be choosing to streamline its video conferencing services by focusing on devices where these tools are most used — namely, mobile and desktop platforms. This would allow Google to allocate more resources to optimizing the experience on these devices.
- Strategic Realignment: This move could be part of a broader strategic shift in Google’s approach to TV services, signaling that the company wants to pivot away from interactive TV apps in favor of more traditional streaming and content consumption experiences.
User Reactions and Concerns
While the average TV user might not be deeply affected, this change will certainly impact a niche group who have come to rely on the app for connecting with family, friends, and colleagues. The announcement has already sparked discussions in online forums, with some users expressing disappointment over losing a unique feature that made Google’s TV platform stand out.
For families who used Meet for group calls, especially for elderly members who may not be as comfortable with using smartphones or laptops, this change could be a step backward in accessibility.
Potential Alternatives
As Google prepares to sunset Meet on TV platforms, users will need to look for alternative solutions. A few options include:
- Using Google Meet on Smartphones or Laptops: This is the most straightforward option, but it lacks the convenience of a larger screen.
- Casting Options: Users can potentially cast their Google Meet sessions from a mobile device to a TV screen using Chromecast, though this might require additional setup and a connected camera and microphone.
- Other Video Calling Apps: Apps like Zoom, Skype, and Microsoft Teams may offer support for smart TVs, though their availability and ease of use can vary depending on the platform.
What’s Next for Google Meet?
It’s unclear whether this deprecation is limited to Android TV and Google TV or if it signals a broader shift in Google’s strategy for Meet as a whole. With the rise of hybrid work and continued demand for flexible communication solutions, Google may be looking to refine its video conferencing offerings to better suit a post-pandemic world.
The tech giant has yet to make an official statement on the timeline for the removal of Google Meet from TV platforms. Until then, users will be left speculating and looking for new ways to bridge the gap once the service is discontinued.
Final Thoughts
Google Meet’s departure from Android TV and Google TV platforms is a reminder of how rapidly technology and services can change. While it may not have been the most popular app on these platforms, it served a niche group of users who appreciated the ability to connect with others on a big screen. As Google continues to evolve its product offerings, only time will tell what new services and features will emerge to fill the void left by Google Meet.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to monitor this story and bring you the latest news on Google’s plans and strategies. For now, if you’re a current user of Google Meet on your TV, it might be time to start exploring other options.
