Stadia, Google’s short-lived cloud gaming platform, quickly shut down on January 18. However, it didn’t stop without first giving its users a parting gift in the form of the ability to unlock the Stadia controller to work on other services and consoles via Bluetooth.
Shortly after the shutdown, a free tool was released that simplified the process a bit, without the need to install an app or sideload. This tool works entirely through the Chrome browser and unlocks the Bluetooth capability that was dormant in the device, allowing users to play wirelessly on PCs, smartphones, tablets, and other devices.
What is the Stadia Controller?
Depending on when you signed up for Stadia, you may have one of four colors sold. Early adopters were able to brand a Founders Edition controller that was Night Blue with orange accents, similar to the Stadia logo. Other colors available were Just Black, Clearly White and Wasabi.
What is the Stadia Controller compatible with?
Bluetooth mode has been tested primarily on the computers and mobile platforms below, but may not work properly with other hardware configurations. There hasn’t been much testing done to ensure compatibility with other services and platforms.
- Windows 10 and 11 + Steam
- macOS 13 + Steam
- Chromium OS
- android
It’s important to keep in mind that the Stadia Controller’s Bluetooth mode can only communicate with computers that have a Bluetooth Low Energy adapter installed. Additionally, Stadia Controller hardware compatibility varies by computer. Some systems may not support haptics, also known as vibration.
Can I still use my Stadia remote with a USB cable?
After Stadia shuts down on January 18, 2023, those who want to play wirelessly will need to use Bluetooth mode. Whether or not Bluetooth is enabled on your device, you can still use a USB cable to connect your Stadia Controller to your computer. Keep in mind, however, that once you’ve enabled Bluetooth mode, you won’t be able to switch back to the WiFi mode the controller originally shipped with.
How do I turn on Bluetooth on the Stadia Controller?
- To switch to Bluetooth mode, go to stadia.google.com/controller on a computer running Chrome 108 or later, then click the “Switch to Bluetooth mode” button.” After that, go to the next page and click the “Start” button.
- After reading and accepting the terms, you will be prompted to plug your controller into an available USB port on your computer. Make sure you’re using a data-enabled USB-C cable and not just a charging cable, preferably the one that came with your remote. Click “Continue”.
- On the page that follows, look for a button labeled “Allow Chrome to verify” and click it. This will open a list of devices which should show your Stadia Controller among the available options. Choose it, then click the “Connect” button.
- Click the “Next Step” button once your controller verification is complete.
- To continue, you may need to unlock your controller by following the on-screen instructions. This involves unplugging the USB-C cable from the controller, then pressing and holding the 3-dot button. Next, also press the Stadia logo, A and Y buttons at the same time while reconnecting the USB-C cable. To determine whether or not you have successfully unlocked it, navigate to the webpage and click the “Next step ” .
- When you click on the “Allow Chrome to download” button that appears, you will find that the “SP Blank RT Family” name has replaced the “Stadia controller” name that was previously displayed. Tap “Connect”.
- To complete the installation of the latest software version for the controller’s Bluetooth mode, click “Next Step” on the page immediately following this one.
- On the screen that follows, click the “Allow Chrome to install” button, then select “USB Composite Device” from the pop-up window that appears. Bluetooth mode will install.
How do I pair my Stadia Controller via Bluetooth?
Once Bluetooth mode is enabled on your controller, the process to pair it with another system is very simple. All you need to do is hold the “Y + Stadia” buttons for 2 seconds until the status light flashes orange. This means it is now in pairing mode and visible to other devices to connect to.
