Google is shutting down its popular Google Play Movies & TV app, starting with its removal from Roku devices and most smart TVs. Over the next few weeks, the app will be phased out until it is permanently gone. However, users need not worry as their rented and purchased films will be transferred to Android TV and YouTube. The change is part of Google's efforts to simplify its movie and TV content access, with the standalone TV app being the preferred platform. Previously purchased titles can still be accessed on Android TV devices, Google TV devices, the Google TV mobile app, and YouTube.
Google is phasing out Google Play Movies & TV and directing users to the Google TV app, YouTube, and the Shop tab on Android TV for watching or renting content. The transition will be completed by January 17th, and users will still have access to their purchased content. This move follows a trend of consolidation in the entertainment industry, with Apple also integrating its TV app to provide a unified experience for accessing and purchasing shows and movies.
Google Play Movies & TV apps will be fully phased out in January 2024, with the app already non-functional on Android TV. The brand has been replaced by Google TV, and access to purchased content will be available through Google TV devices, the Google TV mobile app, and YouTube. The "Shop" tab on Android TV will be the only option for users who still have the app working. Other platforms, including select cable boxes and the Google Play website, will also lose access to Play Movies & TV, redirecting users to YouTube for continued access to purchased content.
Google is discontinuing Google Play Movies & TV as the Android TV app is being replaced with a new "Shop" tab. The service, which allowed users to rent or buy movies and TV shows, will now be integrated into the homescreen of Android TV devices. The new "Shop" tab will support existing libraries synced from Play Movies, Google TV, and YouTube, similar to the "Library" tab on Google TV. The update will roll out in 24 countries over the next few weeks.
