Google’s decision to end support for its third-party devices doesn’t mean they’ll stop working, but it’s indicative of what’s been going on for the past few years: They just won’t get any new features or updates.
Discontinuing third-party product updates not only seems like a way for the company to phase out a line of products that have been largely superseded by the Nest Hub (which could soon be usurped by the upcoming Pixel tablet), but it’s also a sign. . of Google distancing itself from the Assistant of yesteryear and focusing more on generative AI technology like Bard.
In a memo obtained by CNBC last month, Google Assistant head Sissie Hsiao informed workers that the team’s vice president of engineering, Amar Subramanya, would be moving on to lead Bard’s team. She also indicated that the division would take on a more supportive role as Google continues to work on Bard.
“As the Bard teams continue this work, we want to make sure we continue to support and execute on the opportunities that lie ahead,” Hsiao said in the memo seen by CNBC. “This year, more than ever, we have focused on delivering with impact for our users.”
Meanwhile, a report Information October had previously revealed that Google was investing less in Car Assistant products and other third-party devices that use the software, including TVs, headphones, smart home speakers, smart glasses and smart watches. Hsiao reportedly told a colleague that Android Auto only brings in about $1 billion in annual revenue, which is barely enough to put a dent in the $257.6 billion Google earned last year. That’s why he can turn some people away from the initiative.
