Google pulling this app from a Roku device or TV— here's why

Google pulling this app from a Roku device or TV— here's why

Google will remove its Google Play Movies and TV app from Roku devices and many smart TVs this summer. Fortunately, however, the ability to watch content purchased with that app remains. That is YouTube, and YouTube already collects your purchased and rented content in the "Your Movies and Shows" section.

Google announced that this change will take place on July 15. Apps will also get snapped up from LG, Roku, Samsung and Vizio smart TVs. And while the transition appears to leave no one out in the cold, here's the catch.

Anything purchased through the YouTube app won't share as a Play Family Library purchase, but previously purchased Google Play movies and TV content will still offer that functionality.

Thus, while it may seem like the Google Play Movies and TV brand is no longer around for long, it will live on: purchases can be made on the Google Play Movies and TV site, the iOS app of the same name, and even on Android TV devices

In addition, the brand will continue to be available for purchase on the Google Play Movies and TV website, the iOS app of the same name, and Android TV devices.

Even more dizzying, the Google TV app for Android and the Chromecast with Google TV will be another way to view purchased titles.

Confusing, right? This feels similar to the confusion surrounding Google Play Music and YouTube Music, YouTube Red and YouTube Premium; Liliputing posted screenshots of Google's attempt to ease the transition: some users are being offered gift codes that can only be used on YouTube. Speaking of credits, Google Play credits will retain their value on YouTube.

Another annoyance: Google Play Movies & TV's Watchlist does not come to YouTube. If you need similar functionality, you will need to create a playlist.

Even if you have never purchased from Google Play Movies and TV, you may already have content in the "Your movies and shows" section. Here you will find content obtained from the Movies Anywhere (digital copies obtained by redeeming a code found on the Blu-ray or DVD package) program.

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