# Google Meet’s Android TV App May Be Facing Sunset
Google Meet, the widely-used video conferencing service, is at risk of vanishing from Android TV and Google TV devices, based on recent insights from an APK analysis. This possible elimination might mark the conclusion of an era for those who have appreciated the ease of conducting video calls on larger screens. Although the app is operational for the time being, indications suggest that users should begin seeking alternatives.
## Important Information
– **Google Meet is probably being phased out** on Android TV and Google TV devices, as suggested by an APK analysis.
– The application is still usable on Android TV, but users should start contemplating other video conferencing choices.
– A contributing factor to the app’s underperformance could be that most televisions lack built-in cameras or microphones, forcing users to buy extra equipment.
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## The Looming Shutdown
If you enjoy utilizing Google Meet on your Android TV for video calls, it’s wise to brace for changes. A recent report from [Android Authority](https://www.androidauthority.com/google-meet-android-tv-deprecation-apk-teardown-3485766/) indicates that an examination of the most recent Google Meet update reveals that the app will likely be withdrawn from Android TV and Google TV devices. The APK code provides clear indications that Google intends to discontinue the app on these platforms.
### Significant Code Snippets
The following code snippets were found in the APK teardown, strongly suggesting the app’s forthcoming removal:
“`plaintext
Soon you won’t be able to use Google Meet on your Android TV to make calls. Click below for alternatives and to learn more.
Meet on Android TV is going away
“`
These lines of code imply that Google is gearing up to inform users regarding the app’s discontinuation while presenting alternative video conferencing solutions.
## A Brief Adventure
Google Meet, formerly known as Duo, was launched on Android TV in 2020. The app made it possible for users to connect a webcam to their TV and join video calls directly from their living room. While this appeared to be a handy feature, it never achieved widespread acceptance, likely due to the necessity of additional hardware.
Most smart televisions do not include built-in cameras or microphones, meaning users were compelled to acquire external devices to participate in video calls. This added requirement might have discouraged numerous potential users, hindering the app’s effectiveness on TV platforms.
## No Official Statement Yet
Currently, Google has not issued an official announcement concerning the removal of Google Meet from Android TV. Nevertheless, the APK teardown offers substantial evidence that this alteration is on the horizon. Android Central has contacted Google for a comment, and the article will be updated if a response is provided.
For now, users can continue utilizing Google Meet on their Android TV devices, but it may be prudent to begin looking into other video conferencing options, as the app could be taken down at any moment.
## Reasons for Google Meet’s Challenges on TV
There are several factors contributing to Google Meet’s struggles on Android TV and Google TV devices:
1. **Absence of Built-In Hardware**: The majority of TVs are not equipped with built-in cameras or microphones, which are crucial for video calls. Users needed to purchase and connect external webcams and microphones, creating additional costs and complications.
2. **Restricted Use Cases**: While video conferencing on a TV may seem attractive, it might not be a feature that many households require or utilize frequently. Most users find it more convenient to conduct calls on their smartphones, tablets, or laptops, which already have cameras and microphones.
3. **Rivalry from Other Platforms**: There are many video conferencing services accessible, many of which are tailored for mobile and desktop environments. Google Meet might have found it hard to compete with these platforms on TV devices, where demand for video calls is minimal.
## A Recurring Trend
This isn’t the first instance of Google Meet being removed from a TV platform. Earlier this year, the app was eliminated from Samsung TVs, which could have served as an initial indication that Google was planning to withdraw the app from TV devices entirely. The removal from Samsung TVs might have been a test for the wider discontinuation now appearing on Android TV and Google TV.
## What’s Next for Users?
For users who depend on Google Meet for video calls on Android TV, this prospective withdrawal would represent a major setback. Whether for business discussions or staying in touch with loved ones, the ability to make video calls on a large screen is a convenient feature that will be regrettably absent.
However, alternative options exist. Users can investigate other video conferencing applications compatible with Android TV or Google TV, or they can keep using Google Meet on their smartphones, tablets, or computers.
