Google Chrome now supports official Nintendo Switch controllers.
The console’s included Joy-Cons and optional Pro Controller are compatible. The surprise update comes just days before Google is expected to unveil a brand new game streaming service at GDC 2019.
Google isn’t a company you would typically associate with gaming, but that could change in 2019. The company is working on a new streaming service dubbed Project Stream that will bring the latest games to your browser.
We’re expected to find out more about the service at GDC on March 19. In the meantime, Google is taking further steps to make Chrome even friendlier for gamers.
Chrome now supports Switch controllers
The latest update to Chromium, the platform Chrome is based on, brings full support for Joy-Cons and the Switch Pro Controller. They can be connected wirelessly or with a cable in a number of configurations.
Just like on the Switch itself, Chrome supports a single Joy-Con, or two together. It also supports the Joy-Con Charging Grip.
What does this mean?
For now this isn’t too exciting; there aren’t many games you would want to play with a controller in a web browser. But in less than a week, it could be a different picture entirely.
Project Stream is expected to bring high-end PC games to your browser. You won’t need to own powerful hardware yourself. Just a strong network connection with a good download speed should be enough.
That means you may soon be able to enjoy the latest games, with the best visuals, on a $200 Chromebook. And thanks to third-party controller support, you won’t even need to buy a special gamepad to get started.
Find out more on March 19
Google’s GDC event takes place on March 19, so we’ll find out more about its plans then.
Sony and Microsoft are also expected to unveil game streaming services this year, which could mean the next-generation of consoles will be very different to what gamers are currently used to.
