Google’s Stadia is a video game streaming service that enables you to play the newest games on your computer, smartphone, or Chromecast Ultra. Since it is a streaming service, a powerful computer is unnecessary. Technically, you don’t need any special hardware, as it is compatible with a variety of excellent third-party controllers, but setting up a Google Stadia controller is simple and results in a fantastic gaming experience.
What Is the Google Stadia Gamepad?
As Stadia is a game streaming service, no special hardware is required. It’s designed to run in the Chrome browser, Google’s Chromecast Ultra streaming device and he Stadia phone app, giving you multiple options for playing. It also supports a variety of controllers, but the Stadia controller was designed with it in mind.
The Stadia controller is heavily influenced by other popular controllers, such as the Xbox One controller, DualShock 4, and the Switch Pro controller from Nintendo. It has a similar feel to the Switch Pro controller, but Sony’s button layout is used for the D-pad and thumbstick placement. Additionally, it includes a few extra buttons designed specifically for Stadia.
How to Connect Your Stadia Controller to Wireless Network
The Stadia controller, unlike most wireless controllers, features both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. It also includes a standard USB-C connector for charging the battery and connecting the controller to computers and mobile devices.
Note: The Stadia controller has a built-in Bluetooth radio, but this feature was not enabled during the initial launch window.
- Launch the Stadia app on a smartphone or tablet that is compatible.
- Depress the Stadia button on your controller until it vibrates, indicating that it has been activated.
- Upper right corner of the Stadia app, tap the controller icon.
- Activate location access, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth when prompted.
Note: When granting location permission, choose to Allow always or Allow only while using the app. If you select Deny, the application may malfunction. - Once the app has located your controller, select it from the list.
- After your controller vibrates, select Yes in the Stadia app.
- To indicate that you have read the microphone privacy statement, tap Continue.
- Choose whether to share diagnostic and usage information.
- Select Connect to (your Wi-Fi network name).
- Input your network’s password, then tap Connect.
- Await the connection of your controller. When prompted, tap Next, then tap Done.
- Your controller is currently connected to Wi-Fi and ready for use. If your Chromecast is connected and you can see on-screen prompts, you can begin setting up Stadia with your Chromecast immediately; otherwise, continue reading for more detailed instructions.
Connecting a Stadia Controller to a Chromecast Ultra
This is the most effective way to play Stadia games on your television. It is the only streaming device to support Stadia from the service’s initial launch, and connecting it to your television is much simpler than connecting a PC or laptop. Simply plug in the Chromecast Ultra, connect it to Wi-Fi, and then connect it to your Stadia controller to complete the setup. You are then prepared to begin streaming games to your television.
Here’s how to connect a Chromecast ultra to a Stadia controller:
- Connect Chromecast Ultra, ensure it is powered on, and select the appropriate HDMI input on your television.
- Ensure that your Chromecast Ultra and Stadia controller are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Examine the television for a Stadia link code.
- Depress the Stadia button on your controller until it vibrates, indicating that it has been activated.
- Input the code with your Stadia controller. Note: The code will consist of buttons that can be found on your Stadia controller. If a D-pad is depicted, press the portion of the D-pad that corresponds to the D-highlighted pad’s area in the code.
- Return to the Stadia application on your mobile device and tap your avatar in the upper right corner.
- Select the Chromecast to which the controller was just connected.
- Select the Google account that you use with Stadia when prompted, then tap Connect.
- Wait for the process to complete, then tap Done.
Note: The next time you use your Stadia controller with this Chromecast, you will be able to choose your Stadia account and begin playing.
How to Configure and Use a Stadia Controller with a Computer or Mobile Device
Wireless mode is not supported when using Chrome on a computer or the Stadia app on a smartphone with a Stadia controller. Instead of configuring Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to use your Stadia controller with a computer or smartphone, you only need to connect a USB cable. It really is that easy.
Google Chrome Connection Instructions for the Stadia Controller
Connecting a computer to a Stadia controller requires a USB cable and a few straightforward steps:
- Connect the Stadia controller to your computer using a USB-A to USB-C or USB-C to USB-C cable.
- Using Chrome, navigate to Stadia.com and sign in to your Stadia account.
- Begin playing your desired game with the Stadia controller.
How to Connect Your Stadia Controller to Your Google Pixel Phone Using the Stadia App
The procedure for connecting a Stadia controller to a Pixel phone is straightforward. The Stadia app and a USB-C cable will be utilized.
- Connect your Stadia controller using a USB-C cable to your Pixel 2, Pixel 3, or Pixel 4 smartphone.
- Launch the Stadia app.
- Start playing your desired game with the Stadia controller.
