When Google decided to close its Stadia game streaming service in early 2023, they gave users of the Stadia Controller a chance to transform it from a Wi-Fi controller to a Bluetooth controller, making it usable with other devices.
Extension of Deadline
Initially, the online tool designed for this conversion was set to be discontinued on December 31, 2023, but Google has pushed this date back to December 31, 2024. Recently, the tech giant has once again extended this deadline.
New Conversion Date Announced
The Stadia Controller webpage now indicates that users can convert their Wi-Fi controllers to Bluetooth mode until December 31, 2025, giving them an extra year. This conversion makes Wi-Fi functionality unusable, but users can still utilize USB mode.
Pros and Cons of Switching
Although switching to Bluetooth mode helps avoid the Stadia Controller becoming e-waste, there are some limitations. For instance, users cannot connect headphones through the 3.5mm audio jack or USB port because the Bluetooth Low Energy connection does not allow passthrough audio. However, if the controller is used in wired mode via the USB port on Windows or Android, the audio jack remains functional.
Upon completion of the switch, the controller can be connected to various devices like Windows 10 and 11 PCs + Steam, macOS 13 + Steam, ChromeOS, and Android. Additionally, users can customize the functions of the Assistant and Capture buttons.
