Tag: Stadia Controller

  • Google Extends Bluetooth Switch Deadline for Stadia Controller

    Google Extends Bluetooth Switch Deadline for Stadia Controller

    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.

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  • Google Announces Stadia Controller Users will have Bluetooth Mode Option by 2024’s End

    Google Announces Stadia Controller Users will have Bluetooth Mode Option by 2024’s End

    Google Extends Deadline for Stadia Controller Bluetooth Synchronization

    Google has announced that the deadline to synchronize Stadia controllers with Bluetooth has been extended. Previously, users were required to connect their controllers to a computer and utilize an online application provided by Google to activate Bluetooth mode. However, Google has now pushed out the deadline from December 31, 2023, to December 31, 2024.

    Switching to Bluetooth Mode

    Switching to Bluetooth mode is a relatively straightforward process, as outlined in the step-by-step directions provided by the application. Once the procedure is complete, the Stadia controller will begin utilizing Bluetooth low-energy connections.

    Permanent Changes

    It is important to note that once the controller is switched to Bluetooth mode, certain capabilities such as wireless passthrough audio, which are only available with Wi-Fi connectivity, will no longer be accessible. However, Google has deemed this modification to be permanent. Despite losing these functions, users may still prefer to use the controller in Bluetooth mode rather than not being able to use it at all.

    Verifying Bluetooth Patch

    To ensure that your Stadia controller has the most recent Bluetooth patch, you can visit the Stadia website and connect the controller to a PC. This will allow you to check if any updates are needed.

    In conclusion, Google has provided Stadia controller users with more time to switch to Bluetooth mode by extending the deadline to December 31, 2024. By following the step-by-step directions provided by the online application, users can easily activate Bluetooth and enjoy the flexibility of using their Stadia controller with various devices and gaming platforms.

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