Back in 2022, many can recall what was the judgment call from Google: the closure of Stadia. While the service has been operating for more than a year, Google was showing hesitation with other actions like the shuttering of its first-party developer, Stadia Games & Entertainment. The decision instantly led to developers already issuing avenues for migration to other platforms in light of the announcement.
In the aftermath, we learned of other projects that were intended for Stadia. Titles like Supermassive Games’ The Quarry & High on Life from Squanch Games were both intended for the platform. Even its own launch exclusive Gylt was ported to other major platforms as developer Tequila Works obtained the IP to ship for multiplatform.
One motion that many were appreciative of is the option to implement proper bluetooth support for the official Stadia controller. However, that tool is to be closed by New Year’s Day. In less than a week, those who have not updated their controller will not be able to do so through proper channels provided by Google.
“Once you switch your controller to Bluetooth mode, you can’t change it back to use Wi-Fi on Stadia. You can still play wired with USB in Bluetooth mode,” Google does warn, but holds not weight as Stadia is no longer active. The official FAQ does confirm most major devices are compatible with the gamepad as well as button remapping.
But, the use of external headphones is not enabled; only when plugged in directly. “When using the controller wirelessly in Bluetooth mode, the 3.5mm port and USB port won’t be able to be used for headphones. When using the controller wired with USB, you’ll be able to plug headphones into the controller’s 3.5mm port.”
Are you surprised this final feature for Stadia is to end next week?
Source: Google
