Here's what you need to play Stadia games in 4K
Finally, Google has launched the long-awaited ability to play 4K Stadia games on the web. The feature can be used in all regions where the game streaming service is available, but many were wondering about the requirements to experience the best of Stadia 4K. Now, to help with this, Google has given the exact answer. Here's all about it.
Google-recommended requirements for Stadia 4K
Just recently, Google shared Stadia 4K requirements on its support website, noting that you will need a Windows PC or a Chromebook that can decode video in VP9 format as well as a 4K monitor to play Stadia games in 4K on the web. The combination of an eligible notebook and display would ensure the best possible visual experience of the games, per Google.
High internet speed also needed to support streaming
Your PC may have basic to moderate-level hardware but the internet running on it should be fast enough to support Stadia's "best visual quality" option. For this, Google recommends at least 35Mbps as the ideal speed to make games stream smoothly and in the best quality. You can, of course, use lower speeds but the quality won't be as good.
No macOS support but there are workarounds
Meanwhile, if you use a macOS PC, there is no way but to wait for official support from Google. At present, the Apple-built platform doesn't support Stadia games in 4K due to the lack of native VP9 hardware decoding. There is no timeline for official availability either, but some users were able to force 4K on their Mac using the unofficial Stadia+ Chrome extension.
More features 'coming soon'
Beyond macOS support, you should also note that some audiovisual features, particularly HDR and 5.1 surround sound, are still missing from the 4K Stadia experience on the web. Google says that the capabilities would be 'coming soon,' but until then your experience would be relatively flat, especially if you are used to playing from a hardcopy on a well-equipped machine or console.
