Google Store says goodbye to Chromecast with Google TV

The Chromecast with Google TV, both the 4K and HD versions, can no longer be bought from the Google Store. As of Thursday afternoon in the US, the Google Store shows “No longer available” on the product pages for these devices. If you visit the Smart Home > Streaming section, you’ll only see the new Google TV Streamer listed. Earlier this week, some colors of the 2020 4K model (priced at $49.99) and the 2022 HD model (priced at $29.99) were still around. These were much cheaper options compared to the new device replacing them.
When Google announced the Google TV Streamer in August, they said the Chromecast would stay on sale until stock ran out. Support and updates for existing Chromecast users won’t change, though we’re still waiting for the Android 14 update to roll out. Google seems to think people don’t want low-cost streaming gadgets anymore. They say even the cheapest TVs now come with streaming built-in. The launch of the new streaming box signals the end of the Chromecast name.
You might still spot Chromecast devices at other stores like Best Buy, where the HD version is on clearance for $14.99—but it’s disappearing fast and isn’t available in physical shops anymore. Supplies at these third-party sellers are also drying up. The Voice Remote made for Chromecast with Google TV isn’t for sale right now either, though there’s a “Get notified” button if it comes back. You can grab the Google TV Streamer Voice Remote instead, but features like “Find My Remote” and the shortcut button only work with the new Streamer.
In short, Chromecast with Google TV is stepping out, making way for Google’s next big thing in streaming.
YouTube Music adds new feature to keep song volume steady

YouTube Music is rolling out a new feature called “Stable volume” to make your listening experience better. This option helps keep the sound level the same across all songs, so you won’t have to turn the volume up or down when switching tracks.
Sometimes, songs are louder or softer depending on how they were made. This new feature fixes that by adjusting each track so that all music plays at a similar volume. It’s especially useful when you’re using headphones or listening in the car.
You can find this option in the YouTube Music app by going to Settings > Playback & restrictions, where you’ll see a switch for “Stable volume.” It works for both free and Premium users, and it’s now appearing on Android devices (version 7.07 or later). iOS support may come soon, but it’s not available yet.
This is a welcome update, as many streaming apps like Spotify and Apple Music already have similar volume balancing tools. It helps make playlists and albums sound smoother and more enjoyable without constant volume changes.
So far, the feature is being released in stages, so you might not see it right away, but it should show up soon for everyone.
Android
Android 16 beta adds battery health info, Pixel Fold gets better at detecting opens and closes

Google has released the Android 16 Beta 1 update for Pixel phones, and it brings some helpful new features. One of the key additions is battery health information, which is now available in the settings. Pixel users can now see the battery’s manufacturing date, charge cycles, and overall health score. This can help people understand how well their battery is holding up over time. While this feature is currently hidden under developer options, it might be fully added in a future update.
At the same time, Google is also working to improve the Pixel Fold. With Android 16 Beta 1, there’s a new system that better detects when the phone is opened or closed. This new method uses the hinge angle to more accurately understand the device’s position. Unlike older systems that could be affected by software bugs or slow response times, this new one seems to be more reliable and faster.
These changes are important for people who use foldable phones like the Pixel Fold, as better hinge detection can lead to smoother app transitions and fewer bugs. And for all Pixel users, having detailed battery info can help with managing phone performance and deciding when it’s time for a battery replacement.
Overall, Android 16 Beta 1 focuses on giving users more control and smoother experiences, especially for those with foldables.
Android
Android 16 could bring colorful always-on display to Pixel phones

Google is working on Android 16, and it looks like the update could bring more color to the always-on display (AOD) feature on Pixel phones. Right now, the AOD mostly shows white text on a black screen. But a new setting found in the Android 16 Developer Preview hints at the ability to add colors to this display.
The new feature is called “AOD Preview,” and it includes a switch labeled “Color AOD.” While this setting doesn’t work yet, it suggests that Google might be planning to show colorful content even when the screen is in low-power mode.
This change could make AOD look more lively, maybe by adding color to the clock, notifications, or wallpaper. So far, it’s not clear exactly what will change or how customizable it will be, but the feature seems to be in early testing.
Samsung already has more colorful AOD options on its Galaxy devices, so this update could help Pixel phones catch up. Google often introduces new features first on Pixel devices before making them available to other Android phones.
Android 16 is still being developed, and many features are not ready yet. But if Color AOD becomes part of the final release, Pixel users could get a more vibrant and useful always-on display in the near future.
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