Google is known for ending products, even popular ones like Google+, Hangouts, and Stadia. In 2024, several services and devices reached their end. Here’s a look at the major shutdowns this year:
The Google Bard Brand (Feb 2023 – Feb 2024)
Bard, Google’s AI chatbot, was rebranded as Gemini in early 2024. Bard served as the initial branding for Google’s AI efforts, but the company shifted focus to align all AI tools under the Gemini name. Despite the name change, some users preferred Bard, which evoked storytelling, a fitting concept for a language-based AI.
Google Products: Keen (Jun 2020 – Mar 2024)
Keen was Google’s take on Pinterest, letting users curate topics of interest. Launched as an experimental project under Area 120, it never gained traction. The company officially shut it down in March 2024, ending another social media experiment.
Google Projects (Jun 2018 – Apr 2024)
Google Podcasts operated for nearly six years but was never a core focus. The app functioned as a shortcut to the Google app’s podcast interface. With its closure in April 2024, podcast content moved to YouTube Music, consolidating Google’s media platforms.
Google Projects: Dropcam (Jan 2009 – Apr 2024)
Acquired by Google in 2014, Dropcam supported home security cameras. While no new products were released under the brand, Google maintained support for existing cameras for a decade. When support ended in April, affected users received free Nest Cam replacements.
Nest Secure (Nov 2017 – Apr 2024)
Nest Secure was Google’s DIY home security system. With the shutdown of the legacy Nest app, Nest Secure devices lost internet connectivity in April 2024. Google offered ADT systems as replacements.
VPN by Google One (Oct 2020 – Jun 2024)
The Google One VPN service ended in June. Google shifted focus to built-in VPNs available on Pixel devices, though these lack the cross-platform compatibility of the original service.
The Chromecast Brand (Jul 2013 – Sep 2024)
Chromecast revolutionized streaming but fell behind modern standards. Google confirmed it would no longer manufacture Chromecast devices, retiring the brand while the technology continues under “Google Cast.”
Jamboard (May 2017 – Dec 2024)
Jamboard, Google’s digital whiteboard, and its software are set to stop functioning by January 2025. Users were advised to migrate their files to other collaboration apps. These shutdowns reflect Google’s evolving priorities, focusing on streamlining services while phasing out less successful ventures.
