Google’s Stadia game streaming platform launches on iOS, but not via a dedicated app.
Stadia is now available on iOS devices, including both the iPhone and iPad, using a Safari-based web app. It’s the first game streaming service to launch on iOS and use a browser to bypass Apple’s digital storefront policies. Microsoft’s Xbox game streaming and Amazon’s Luna services are likely to follow the same path when they launch on iOS devices next year.
To get Stadia running on your iPhone or iPad, you will need to install iOS 14.3. Once done, open Safari, navigate to the Stadia website and login The experience is largely identical to the desktop browser version. When you launch a game, you can choose to play using a Bluetooth-connected controller or a touch-screen overlay.
In my brief test of playing Destiny 2, I found the overlay input method to be a little laggy. Thankfully, I had a better experience with a controller.
Stadia has been widely ridiculed since launch, but it’s fair to say the platform is having a pretty good week. Ubisoft+ is now live on Stadia in my regions, giving subscribers access to a robust library of games including Assassin’s Creed Valhalla and Watch Dogs Legion. It’s also one of the best places, if you’re so inclined, to play Cyberpunk 2077 right now. Who’d have thunk it?
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