Google has hit play on the promised update for Chromecast with Google TV, upgrading it from Android 12 to Android 14.
Update: Google has apparently paused the roll-out of the Android 14 update for Chromecast due to software issues. After 3 months, it has still not resumed, according to 9to5Google.
In the summer of 2024, Google launched the new Google TV Streamer as the successor to Chromecast with Google TV, which is now discontinued.
Also read: Review: Google TV Streamer
However, Google pledged to still update the older devices to Android 14, and the company is now making good on that promise after around 6-7 months.
Android 14 for Chromecast
Chromecast with Google TV (4K) launched in 2020 on Android 10 and was later updated to Android 12. Google skipped Android 11 and 13 for Chromecast, making the update to Android 14 the second major Android OS update.
The update introduces support for Google's new voice remote, which can be purchased separately, as well as its 'Find My Remote' feature and 'Magic Button' that can be configured to your preference.
It also includes the January 2025 security patch along with minor stability improvements and optimizations. According to Google, Android 14 delivers "a snappier, more responsive TV experience".
Android 14's Energy modes and picture-in-picture features are reserved for actual TVs.
The company has yet to comment on plans for Android 16 in TVs, which is currently in beta. Google is skipping Android 15 for TVs as it has shifted to a 2-year cycle.
Not all new features require system updates
Google TV devices also receive regular feature updates that do not require a system update. These are pushed out via Google's servers, which is how Google is also adding new ad formats to the Google TV interface.
Recent additions include the Google Home panel for controlling smart home devices and some 'AI' features, including movie summaries powered by Gemini.
We are currently downloading the new system update to our Chromecast with Google TV (4K) but have not yet been able to confirm if it is also rolling out to Chromecast with Google TV (HD). Update: Also the HD version.
Android 14 system update for Chromecast – changelog
FlatpanelsHD
