Released in September 2015, the Chromecast Audio device plugs into a speaker or sound system’s aux input through a 3.5mm audio jack to give it wireless functionality.
The device received excellent ratings for its inexpensive price tag, easy setup, and high-resolution audio support.
It was useful for increasing the functionality of older, wired speakers and getting audio from apps at a louder volume without resorting to Bluetooth. However, Google has discontinued the puck-shaped dongle.
“Our product portfolio continues to evolve, and now we have a variety of products for users to enjoy audio,” Google said in a statement.
“We have therefore stopped manufacturing our Chromecast Audio products. We will continue to offer assistance for Chromecast Audio devices, so users can continue to enjoy their music, podcasts, and more.”
A host of retailers such as eBay, Best Buy, and B&H Photo Video now have the device listed as discontinued or out of stock.
The video version of Chromecast is still available, and this can also be used for streaming audio, but the allure of Chromecast Audio was its price tag.
There are also numerous speakers and other devices available — such as Google Home — that feature support for casting, so the ability to stream music around the home has not really been diminished too much.
Sad as it is to see this product discontinued, there’s still plenty of other ways to introduce wireless connectivity to any audio setup, most of which are relatively inexpensive and easy to accomplish.
By:ZuvielNaazie/techvoiceafrica.com
