Last week, the launch of Google's new cloud-based gaming platform, Stadia, caused a stir in the streaming video industry. Users won't require a specific gaming console to watch Stadia on various connected devices, including tablets, laptops, and TVs. They have the option of using standard controllers or Google's custom Stadia controllers to play the game.
A significant advantage for consumers of a cloud gaming service like Stadia is the removal of the requirement to download or purchase a hard copy of new releases and the convenience of playing the game on additional devices. Users can play the most recent game version whenever they choose because all updates will be done in the cloud. The only potential drawback is that depending on the gamer's internet connection, the streaming's speed and latency will change.
Eventually 5G
Google claims that Stadia can stream games in 4K ultra-high definition quality at 60 frames per second thanks to its cloud servers. Google also claims that in the future, it will be able to support 8K and more than 120 frames per second.
Cloud gaming opens the door to more incredible gaming through wireless connections, whereas most gamers bound to a gaming console have relied on their wired internet connection. For instance, you could want to play Stadia on your tablet while lying on the couch.
Google stated that a connection speed of 25 Mbps was required for Stadia stability, according to market expert Iain Gillott, president of IGR.
Will Google Stadia help operators succeed with 5G?
Gaming, particularly online gaming, quickly overtakes movies and music as one of the most lucrative and well-liked kinds of entertainment. The value of the gaming business was estimated at $134.9 billion in 2018, a 10.9% rise over 2017, according to gamesindustry.biz. Google claims that Stadia will develop into the Netflix of gaming. In essence, this denotes the existence of a cloud gaming platform. Stadia will need incredibly fast low latency bandwidth to provide this service, which is where the intriguing 5G prospect comes in. This is because you interact with the content in a two-way stream and depend on no latency or interruption.
Google permitted users to test this product as long as they had a connection speed of at least 25 Mbps.
To meet some of the performance KPIs indicated above, after this is fully launched, you will likely need a broadband connection that is much faster. Maybe this is an excellent application for 5G. With faster speeds and lower latency, it checks all the boxes.
Should operators seek out Google partnerships to make Stadia a reality? Numerous operators have incorporated Netflix and Spotify into their offerings, either by offering free data or the subscription cost as part of the overall package.
