Upgrade to 5G: Save $50 on the unlocked Pixel 4a today

  • Forums
  • Shop
  • Galaxy S21
  • Huawei
  • Pixel 5
  • PS5
  • Android 11
  • Best Chromebook
  • OnePlus 8 Pro
  • Best Wireless Earbuds
  • Best VPN
Come to Stadia

Google's Stadia now comes pre-installed on new Chromebooks

Google also continues to offer three months of free Stadia Pro subscription with new Chromebooks.
Babu Mohan
11 Feb 2021

Best Game Controllers Chromebook Pixel Slate HeroSource: Andrew Myrick / Android Central

What you need to know

  • All Chromebooks now come with Stadia pre-installed.
  • To start playing games on your new Chromebook, all you have to do is click on the Stadia icon in the app menu.
  • Unsurprisingly, it is the Stadia Progressive Web App (PWA) that will come pre-installed on new Chromebooks, not the Android app.

Last year, a Chromium code change had revealed that Google was planning to pre-install the Stadia app on Chromebooks. A tweet from the Made By Google Twitter account has confirmed that new Chromebooks now come with Stadia pre-installed. This means you can start streaming your favorite games on your new Chromebook just by clicking the Stadia icon in the app menu.

Did you know Chromebooks now come with @GoogleStadia already installed? Start playing games without waiting for downloads or updates. Click the Stadia icon in your app menu to get started. pic.twitter.com/iV1Mb32pYP

— Made By Google (@madebygoogle) February 9, 2021

As noted by XDA Developers, it isn't the Stadia Android app that will come pre-installed on Chromebooks. Instead, you'll find the Progressive Web App (PWA) on your new Chromebook. The Stadia PWA is basically just a shortcut to the Stadia website. That said, the move should translate to at least a slight boost in popularity for Stadia. Demand for Chromebooks has grown significantly over the last year or so, as working and studying at home has become the new normal due to the pandemic.

VPN Deals: Lifetime license for $16, monthly plans at $1 & more

Google also offers three months of free Stadia Pro subscription with new Chromebooks, which should further encourage more Chromebook owners to try the game streaming service. Since you'll just be streaming games, you can look forward to an enjoyable experience even if you don't get the best Chromebook on the market. As our very own David Jagneaux noted in his recent review of Stadia, the cloud gaming service has finally matured and offers a fantastic experience for games like Cyberpunk 2077.

However, the future of the gaming platform remains uncertain. Google announced earlier this month that it was shutting down the first-party Stadia Games and Entertainment wing. The company says it will now focus on working with third-party developers to bring new content to the platform.

Razer Anzu Smart Glasses are the ultimate work-from-home wearable
Take my money

Razer Anzu Smart Glasses are the ultimate work-from-home wearable

Razer has just launched its first pair of smart glasses to help reduce eye strain while giving you full control of your audio and gaming experience.

The $169 Sonos Roam portable speaker just leaked and UE should be worried
UE WHO?

The $169 Sonos Roam portable speaker just leaked and UE should be worried

Sonos is expected to announce its first truly portable Bluetooth speaker in less than a week, but official images and info have just been leaked days before the launch.

Review: Xplora X5 Play is a kids smartwatch with a lot of potential
Time for an adventure

Review: Xplora X5 Play is a kids smartwatch with a lot of potential

Kids smartwatches are moving from only being a toy, to being full-fledged communication and safety devices. In that spirit, the Xplora X5 Play offers excellent, matured hardware with some fun ways to encourage children to be active. But does it all work in a cohesive package?

Stream Stadia games in style and comfort with these Stadia accessories
Upgrade your setup

Stream Stadia games in style and comfort with these Stadia accessories

In order to make the most of Google Stadia on the go and through your phone, you should consider purchasing some accessories like a controller clip and wireless headphones.

Keep in Touch

Sign up now to get the latest news, deals & more from Android Central!

I would like to receive news and offers from other Future brands.

I would like to receive mail from Future partners.

No spam, we promise. You can unsubscribe at any time and we'll never share your details without your permission.

  • News
  • Stadia
  • Phones
  • Reviews
  • Chromebooks
  • Android
  • How To
  • Deals
  • Forums
  • Gaming
  • VPN

Other Categories

  • About Us
  • Newsletter
  • Advertising Inquiries
  • Licensing and Reprints
  • Tip us on news
  • Accessibility Statement
  • Windows Central
  • iMore
  • CrackBerry
  • Thrifter
  • TechnoBuffalo
  • MrMobile
Log in or Sign up
  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • YouTube
  • Instagram
  • RSS

Brightness

  • © Future US, Inc.
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Policy
  • Careers
  • Licensing
  • External Links Disclosure
  • Accessibility Statement
  • © Future US, Inc.
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Policy
  • Careers
  • Licensing
  • External Links Disclosure
  • Accessibility Statement