Google quietly shutting down a popular app in shake-up

Google is deleting a popular app in another shakeup at the company.

The Google Play Movies & TV app is soon to be no more.

The service is already removed from Roku devices and most smart TVs, and over the next few weeks, Google will continue to shut it down until it’s permanently gone. It’s currently still available on Android TV and the Google Play store, but not for much longer.

“We are making some changes to simplify how you purchase new movies or access the movies and TV shows you’ve purchased through Google,” the company wrote in a support thread for Android TV Help.

Starting January 17, users will no longer be able to access their content through Play Movies & TV — but don’t worry, your rented and purchased films aren’t gone for good. All film and TV purchased will be transferred to Android TV and YouTube.

“With these changes, Google Play Movies & TV will no longer be available on Android TV devices or the Google Play website,” Google explained. “However, you’ll still be able to access all of your previously purchased titles (including active rentals) on Android TV devices, Google TV devices, the Google TV mobile app (Android and iOS), and YouTube.”

The tech giant has been slowly trying to kill off the Play Movies & TV app since it launched its standalone TV app in 2021.

When the change hits on January 17, those who use TVs and streaming devices powered by Android TV will be able to watch previously purchased titles or buying and rent new movies through the “Shop” tab, and purchased titles and active rentals will appear in the Your Library row.

On cable boxes or set-top boxes powered by Android TV, the YouTube app will house all previously purchased content. YouTube will also be the new content home for those who use a web browser.

These changes come shortly after Google deleted inactive Gmail accounts as a cybersecurity initiative and also introduced an AI-fueled makeover with five new features.