Google has confirmed that its Fast Pair feature for Google TV is currently available on only four devices, more than three years after the company first announced the technology.
The feature, which allows users to easily pair and switch Bluetooth headphones between devices through on-screen pop-ups, is supported on the Chromecast with Google TV, Chromecast with Google TV (HD), Google TV Streamer, and Walmart Onn 4K Plus.
Google first announced Fast Pair for Google TV in early 2022, initially including Android TV support and announcing a partnership with TCL. However, the feature’s rollout has been significantly slower than expected, with most users still unable to access it.
The limited availability stems from Fast Pair being an optional feature that device manufacturers must choose to enable on a device-by-device basis. This requirement was revealed through Android Authority’s investigation using Google Play Console data.
Google re-announced the feature in January 2024, initially confirming it would come to Chromecast devices first. The feature launched in February 2024, but the promised expansion to “more Google TV devices” has not materialized as anticipated.
A Google spokesperson confirmed the current four-device limitation but stated that the company is “actively working with its partners to enable support on more devices.” Device makers can choose to add Fast Pair support to their Google TV products.
Fast Pair technology works across Android devices, ChromeOS, and compatible headphones, allowing users to quickly connect audio devices and seamlessly switch them between different screens and devices.
The slow rollout highlights the challenges Google faces in implementing features across its partner ecosystem, where individual manufacturers must opt in to support new technologies.
While Google continues to promote Fast Pair as a key advantage of its TV platform, the limited device support means most Google TV users cannot currently access the feature. The company has not provided a timeline for when additional devices might gain support.
The revelation helps explain why many users have been unable to find Fast Pair functionality on their Google TV devices despite Google’s promotional materials suggesting broader availability.
Follow on Google News
