Google announces video game streaming platform Stadia
Google has unveiled its new video game streaming platform Stadia, which will allow gamers to play across multiple devices.
Company boss Sundar Pichai revealed details about the service, outlining its aim to bring gaming in resolutions up to 4K, 60 frames per second, with surround sound, that will work seamlessly across TV, computer, tablet or mobile, in a move that it claims will “free players from the limitations of traditional consoles and PCs”.
Stadia is set to launch in the UK, US, Canada and other parts of Europe later this year, alongside a dedicated controller, although existing USB controllers will also be compatible.
Google said it will leverage its data centre power to make the service possible and will make the controller wi-fi compatible to address any lag issues.
“The new generation of gaming is not a box,” said Google Vice President Phil Harrison.
“The data centre is your platform.”
Introducing #Stadia, an all-new way to play from Google. Coming in 2019 → https://t.co/k04HS5hrVw #GDC19 pic.twitter.com/UQvD3m4jkJ
— Google (@Google) March 19, 2019
Google is also hoping to utilise its YouTube video streaming service, with a button that allows users to share directly to the platform.
The company is also putting its own products at the forefront, using the Chrome web browser, a Chromecast device or a Google Pixel phone or tablet.
Doom Eternal is one of the first games to be confirmed for Stadia, which will run at 4K resolution and 60 frames per second.
Exact pricing is yet to be announced.
