Google started achieving its Q1 2020 target last month by rolling out its streaming service to Samsung, Asus and Razer phones. Up next is Stadia’s 4K gaming on the web, with that feature beginning to show up for users this evening.
4K gameplay had been limited to Chromecast Ultra and televisions before this launch. In addition to noting the visual improvement over 1080p on computers, you may confirm by opening the in-game menu — Shift + Tab or the Controller Stadia button — and pressing “Connection” A mint green “4K” icon should appear under “Data Usage” status.
Technically, a “Excellent” connection is required, but we also hit 4K on “Good” and even “Ok.” The $9.99 per month Stadia Pro subscription is needed to access the “Best Visual Quality” option, along with internet speeds over 35Mbps. So far, the choice can only be set on the mobile apps, along with HDR, and not on stadia.com.
As of late Wednesday evening, there are several gamers around the world encountering 4K Stadia on the web. Given that a similar pattern followed the full launch of Stadia Captures on the web, Google’s official announcement could come as early as Thursday morning.
Stadia’s this was a busy week from new games to the ability to download screenshots and clips online. What’s left for Google by the end of March is wireless web support for the Stadia Controller and expanded availability of Google Assistant.
