After Google’s sudden announcement that the Statia service will be shut down next year, players can only hope that Google will update the handle firmware and not let the device smash in their hands. Currently, the Stadia handle can only be used through the Stadia service and is only compatible with a small number of devices.
In the Stadia announcement FAQ, Google officially stated that “most of the hardware purchased by Google does not need to be returned”, including the Stadia handle.
But players are still reluctant to let their electronics become electronic junk and hope that Google can upgrade the handle firmware so that the handle can be used elsewhere after Stadia ceases service.
The handle itself already includes Bluetooth and WiFi capabilities, but cannot be connected to other hosts and PCs. Many players have spoken out on the Stadia forums, asking Google to at least let players continue to use the handle on their PCs after Stadia services are shut down.
Some players have also asked Google to simply open-source the firmware so that users can solve the problem themselves.
Some users have also contacted Stadia customer service to ask about Bluetooth access to the handle, but they replied that there is no information or roadmap on whether Bluetooth is currently unlocked.
