Google Stadia cloud gaming service is now available on iPhone and iPad via Safari

Companies offering cloud game streaming services have found a workaround for Apple’s App Store rules regarding game streaming, and that’s Safari. Google is making its own effort, Stadia, available through the web browser beginning today.

The first thing to be aware of, though, is that this is an open beta. If you wish to take part of the new Google Stadia service via Safari, you’ll need to visit Stadia.com and sign up. Once accepted into the open beta, you’ll be able to access the Stadia cloud game streaming service, which allows access to a range of games, including Red Dead Redemption 2, Cyberpunk 2077, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, and many more.

Google does note that development for Stadia via Safari is still in works. That means the experience itself may be a bit rough around the edges, and certainly not up to par that a native app would provide. However, using Safari to access these cloud game streaming services is the only logical way for these companies to do it.

Apple’s rules for game streaming services in the App Store used to deny these apps altogether. Apple did change its rules to technically allow for these types of services in the App Store, but the rules applied made actually launching the service via the App Store a nonstarter for companies like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft. Using Safari and a dedicated web app, however, is perfectly allowed by Appel’s iOS rules, so here we are.

Meanwhile, Google will be adding new features and improvements over time as more people use the service and offer their feedback.

If you want to use Google Stadia on your iPhone or iPad, here’s how you can do that:

  1. Visit the website
  2. Tap the Share button in Safari
  3. Select “Add to Home Screen”

Once you have the web app saved to your Home Screen, you’ll be able to launch the Stadia cloud game streaming service right from the Home Screen and jump into some gaming when you want.

Google Stadia itself is free. However, the company offers Stadia Pro for folks who want to fork over $10 per month for select free games, the ability to play in 4K HDR and 5.1 surround sound, and “exclusive discounts” for content in the storefront.