Should I use the ID or the full path for the google_product_category attribute?

You can use either the numeric ID 8156 or the full text path. The numeric ID is often preferred because it is language-independent and less prone to typographical errors in the feed file.

Is the google_product_category attribute mandatory for my products?

It is optional, as Google will attempt to auto-categorize your items if the field is empty. However, manually assigning the category ensures higher accuracy and prevents your products from being placed in irrelevant categories.

Can I use product_type to replace the google_product_category?

No. The product_type attribute is a free-form field for your own organizational needs, whereas google_product_category must strictly follow the official Google taxonomy structure.

Google product category

Audio & Video Splitters & Switches

Category ID8156

Full path for the feedElectronics > Electronics Accessories > Audio & Video Splitters & Switches

All deeper subcategories

DVI Splitters & Switches499944
HDMI Splitters & Switches8164
VGA Splitters & Switches499945

Product examples in this category (US market)

Real products found in Google Shopping, shown as examples.

Holland 2 Way Splitter
Philips 4 Port HDMI Switch
Anker HDMI Switch
HDMI Splitter 4K 1080p 1 In 2 Out HDMI Duplicator
Philips 8K HDMI 2-Port Switch
Mrocioa Hdmi Switch 4k 1080p
RadioShack Splitter HDMI 1 X 2 ports
J-tech Digital 8 Port HDMI Powered Splitter
4 Port 8K HDMI 2.1 Switch
5 In 1 Out Hdmi Switch 4k Splitter
Bi-Direction HDMI Switch Switcher Splitter
Orei 8k Hdmi 2.1 Splitter
Ethereal HDMI Scaling Splitter
KEHIPI HDMI Switch 4k Splitter
HDMI Switch 3 into 1 out 4Kx2K HD Video Switch

Audio & Video Splitters & Switches Category Overview

The Audio & Video Splitters & Switches category, identified by ID 8156, covers hardware devices designed to route or duplicate signals between multiple A/V sources and displays. It sits under the Electronics Accessories parent category in the Google product taxonomy.

What Belongs in This Category

This category is intended for signal management devices that allow users to connect multiple input sources to a single output or distribute one input to multiple displays. Examples found in the US market include 2-way and 8-port signal splitters, bi-directional switchers, 4K and 8K HDMI switches, and powered signal duplicators. These products are essential for managing complex home theater setups, gaming stations, or office presentation systems where device connectivity requires switching or simultaneous multi-screen output.

What Does Not Belong Here

Products that transmit signals without switching or splitting, such as standard HDMI or VGA cables, belong in the Cables category. Remote controls for individual devices should be mapped to the Remote Controls category, while hardware used solely to amplify signal strength over long distances is classified under Signal Boosters. Generic adapters that do not perform switching or splitting functions should be placed in the Adapters category rather than this section.

Subcategories

If your inventory is specifically limited to one interface type, use the more granular subcategories: HDMI Splitters & Switches, DVI Splitters & Switches, or VGA Splitters & Switches.

Feed Implementation

Use the numeric ID 8156 or the full path Electronics > Electronics Accessories > Audio & Video Splitters & Switches. While optional, providing this category helps Google correctly identify your hardware.

Frequently asked questions

Should I use the ID or the full path for the google_product_category attribute?: You can use either the numeric ID 8156 or the full text path. The numeric ID is often preferred because it is language-independent and less prone to typographical errors in the feed file.
Is the google_product_category attribute mandatory for my products?: It is optional, as Google will attempt to auto-categorize your items if the field is empty. However, manually assigning the category ensures higher accuracy and prevents your products from being placed in irrelevant categories.
Can I use product_type to replace the google_product_category?: No. The product_type attribute is a free-form field for your own organizational needs, whereas google_product_category must strictly follow the official Google taxonomy structure.

This category in other languages

ru: Электроника > Принадлежности для электроники > Аудио- и видеоразветвители и переключатели
uk: Електроніка > Приладдя для електроніки > Аудіо- та відеорозгалужувачі й перемикачі