Game streaming service Google Stadia (why are you laughing?) shutdown in 2022, leaving behind one mark on the physical realm: its not-too-shabby looking gamepads. Originally intended for Wi-Fi-only connection, after shutting down the Stadia service, Google made sure you could convert the controllers to be used via Bluetooth connectivity (which would therefore make them a viable option for Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, or Android gaming). Itâs now extended your chance to convert them s until December 31, 2024.
Stadia launched, roughly, in 2019, and its death was rather swift, thanks to its strange proposition of requiring both a monthly subscription and the need to purchase individual games (the âNetflixâ of gaming this wasnât). Combine that with Googleâs itchy âlets kill this serviceâ trigger finger, and itâs no surprise the service barely lasted just over three years At the start of 2023, Google announced that it would allow users to switch their controllers over to Bluetooth, enabling wireless use on PC and saving the devices from languishing in landfills. The transition period was supposed to end on December 31, of this year, but as spotted by Wario64 on Twitter (presently called âXâ) that period has been extended by a full year.
While many have found the Stadia controller a comfy gaming device (it gets bonus points for having symmetrical analog sticks), there is a downside to swapping your device over to Bluetooth permanently (and yes, like any good transition, itâs permanent): the 3.5mm audio port wonât work anymore. If thatâs no problem, hereâs how to make the switch.
How to switch your Stadia controller to Bluetooth mode
Changing your Stadia controller over to Bluetooth mode is rather simple. Youâll need a Stadia controller, PC with an Internet connection, and a cable to connect your controller to said PC. Make sure youâre using Chrome and head on over to Googleâs official site: stadia.google.com/controller/
Hit the orangey button that says âSwitch to Bluetooth modeâ at the top of the page and follow the wizard (no need to go to the moon). Once completed, youâll be able to put your controller into pairing mode by holding down Y + the Stadia button for a few seconds. The controllerâs light will flash orange when done correctly. Pair the gamepad as you would any Bluetooth controller.
And thatâs it. You can even remap the Assistant and Capture buttons via button mapping software.
While youâre at it, be sure to take a razor blade to that ugly Stadia logo to remove it. I understand itâs a clever fusion of an S and a Wi-Fi symbol, but come on, that thing just looks awful.