Google is renowned for its extensive lineup of products and services. While the tech giant frequently launches new tools and platforms, it doesn’t hesitate to retire older ones that fail to meet expectations or align with its evolving strategy. To document these changes, Google maintains a “digital graveyard” showcasing every discontinued product.
In 2024, Google added several more entries to this graveyard, bringing the total count to 296. Here’s a closer look at the 10 most notable products and services Google said goodbye to this year:
1. Chromecast (Hardware)
The original Chromecast, launched in 2013, was a groundbreaking device that transformed regular TVs into smart TVs. Priced at just $35, it allowed users to stream content directly from their phones, tablets, or laptops to the TV without needing built-in apps.
Powered by Google Cast technology, it enabled users to stream content from popular apps like YouTube, Netflix, and Spotify with the press of a “Cast” button. However, in 2024, Google phased out the Chromecast hardware, replacing it with the Google TV Streamer, a device that offers expanded functionality and supports modern content streaming needs.
2. Google Jamboard
Google launched Jamboard in 2017 as a 55-inch collaborative digital whiteboard to compete with Microsoft’s Surface Hub. Equipped with a 4K touchscreen, it aimed to facilitate teamwork by integrating seamlessly with Google Workspace (formerly G Suite).
Despite its innovative features like multi-touch support and high-end connectivity options (including USB, HDMI, and Bluetooth), Jamboard didn’t gain widespread adoption. Google announced that automatic updates would cease by September 30, 2024, with the product officially retired on December 31, 2024.
3. Google Podcasts
Google Podcasts debuted in 2018 as a standalone app for podcast enthusiasts. It was yet another attempt by Google to enter the podcast space after the earlier discontinuation of Google Listen and podcast support in Google Play Music.
However, the rise of YouTube as a preferred platform for podcasts overshadowed the app’s relevance. In 2024, Google shifted podcast features to YouTube Music, positioning it as the new centralized hub for podcast listeners. By April, Google Podcasts was officially shut down, with tools provided to migrate subscriptions to YouTube Music or other platforms.
4. First-Generation Pixel Fold and Pixel 7 Series
Google discontinued the first-generation Pixel Fold, along with the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro smartphones. This move wasn’t surprising, as the company introduced newer and more advanced models like the Pixel 9 Pro Fold in 2024, signaling a clear focus on its flagship lineup.
5. Stack (PDF Scanner)
Stack was a PDF scanning app launched in 2021 as part of Google’s experimental Area 120 incubator. It allowed users to scan documents, convert them into PDFs, and organize them into categories called “stacks.” The app also featured smart recognition, extracting key details like due dates from bills.
Despite its functionality, Stack failed to gain traction and was retired in September 2024. Users were advised to switch to other popular PDF scanning apps available on the market.
6. Google Play Movies & TV
Google Play Movies & TV was officially phased out in January 2024. This service had long been overshadowed by YouTube and Google TV, which now serve as Google’s primary platforms for video content.
The transition had been gradual, with Google encouraging users to shift their purchases and rentals to YouTube and Google TV over the past few years. By early 2024, Play Movies & TV was fully retired.
7. Basic HTML Gmail
For years, Gmail offered a basic HTML mode for users with slower connections or outdated browsers. This stripped-down version lacked features like chat, rich formatting, and integration with new tools like Gemini.
In 2024, Google officially retired the basic HTML view, redirecting all users to the standard Gmail interface, which provides a more modern and feature-rich experience.
8. Google One VPN
Introduced in 2020 as part of Google One subscriptions, Google One VPN was designed to enhance online privacy by encrypting traffic and masking IP addresses.
Despite its intended security benefits, the service failed to attract a significant user base. On June 20, 2024, Google discontinued the VPN service, citing low engagement from subscribers.
9. Keen
Launched in 2020, Keen was an experimental project from Google’s Area 120 designed to compete with Pinterest. The platform allowed users to create and share collections (known as “keens”) based on their interests.
However, Keen struggled to attract a dedicated user base and was shut down on March 24, 2024. All user data, including posts, downloads, and comments, was permanently deleted.
10. Dropcam
Dropcam, a Wi-Fi-enabled security camera acquired by Google in 2014, reached the end of its lifecycle in 2024. Initially praised for its ease of use, Dropcam and Dropcam Pro became outdated with the advent of Google’s Nest Cam lineup.
On April 8, 2024, Google discontinued support for Dropcam, rendering the devices unusable. Users were encouraged to transition to newer Nest Cam models for continued functionality.
A Year of Transitions for Google
2024 was a significant year for Google as it retired several products and services to streamline its offerings and focus on more promising ventures. While some discontinuations, like Chromecast hardware and Google Podcasts, reflect shifts in user preferences, others, like Keen and Stack, highlight the challenges of maintaining experimental projects in a competitive market.
As Google continues to innovate, it’s clear that even its digital graveyard serves as a testament to the company’s ever-evolving approach to technology.
