USB audio routing on Chromecast with Google TV not working after Android 12 update? Here's probably why

Chromecast with Google TV (4K) recently received the Android 12 update with some exciting new features. They include the ability to block microphone and camera access, match content frame rate, and more.

However, reports suggest that users are facing certain issues after updating the device to the new firmware.

For instance, we recently highlighted an issue where the Chromecast with Google TV HDR functionality stopped working after the Android 12 update.

And now, several others have noticed (1,2,3,4) that USB audio routing is suddenly not working on their Chromecast with Google TV 4K.

It should be noted that prior to this update, users were able to use the USB audio routing capabilities of the device.

Those affected are reporting that they are unable to hear anything from connected audio hardware.

I used to send audio to an external DAC via usb and worked perfectly until yesterday’s update, anyone else having this problem?
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After update to Android 12, Google silently dropped support for USB Audio. Their support response is horrendous, they left thousands of people with USB Audio connections without any support, they dropped functionality that was present for years.
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While the functionality worked well before the update, Google never made it official. And now it appears that they have silently removed a feature that was previously available to the general public.

According to a user, the option to enable or disable USB audio routing used to be available in the Chromecast with Google TV’s developer settings. However, it’s nowhere to be found after Android 12 update.

Those who have already invested a considerable amount of money into their entertainment setup are frustrated as it’s suddenly dysfunctional.

I mean, I very well understand their emotions. Imagine spending time, effort, and money to build your own mancave only to find that an update has made it all obsolete.

It appears that the problem affects all types of USB audio-related devices like speakers, DACs, audio extractors, and more.

For some, their DAC indicates that a connection has been established, but the sound doesn’t work.

I have connected my DAC by USB via USB-C hub. My DAC shows connection but no sound.
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Unfortunately, Google is yet to comment on the issue where USB audio routing is not working on Chromecast with Google TV 4K. But since the feature was never officially released, it’s hard to say if it will ever come back.

We hope Google takes note of the customer feedback and shares an explanation behind this decision. We’ll keep tabs on this matter and update this story to reflect noteworthy information.

Featured and inline image source: Google

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