Google provided a positive Responsible Design case study in January 2023.
Google Stadia, Google’s attempt at a gaming ecosystem, was scheduled for shutdown on 18 Jan. When the shutdown was initially announced, there was the usual frustration related to losing a service that you rely on. But many Stadia users seemed particularly bothered by the fact that the perfectly fine Stadia controllers would be bricked. The Stadia controller worked over Wi-Fi, while every other gaming controller uses Bluetooth. Microsoft was open about the controller having a Bluetooth chip, though support was never enabled in software.
Google eventually responded to this concern. The company released a tool to enable Bluetooth support in the Stadia Controller. This is a one-way transformation, although it can still be used in wired mode with any games that expect the Wi-Fi controller. The tool will be supported until the end of the year, giving users plenty of time to make the switch.
Later, Google extended the server that supported the conversion tool for an additional year, providing a longer window for users to complete the conversion.
Responsible designers do not brick devices unnecessarily. Rather than becoming e-waste, the controllers can continue to be used with other games and ecosystems. Can you put similar mitigation plans in place for your products?
Related
References
- February 2023 Industry Update (originally featured here)
- Stadia controllers could become e-waste unless Google issues Bluetooth update | Ars Technica
- Google Stadia launch review: Gaming’s “future” looks rough in the present | Ars Technica
Ars’ Senior Gaming Editor Kyle Orland called the controller “one of the highlights of the Stadia launch package,” saying it “boasts a solid, well-balanced weight; comfortable, clicky face buttons and analog sticks; quality ergonomic design on the d-pad and shoulder triggers; and strong, distinct rumble motors.” - Google Stadia celebrates shutdown with controller update, new game | Ars Technica
- The web server that will allow Google’s Stadia Controllers to live on will remain online for another year, providing a longer window for users who have not yet completed the conversion.
- Stadia Bluetooth mode
- A Gift from the Stadia Team & Bluetooth Controller… – Stadia Community
In addition, many of you have expressed the desire to enable Bluetooth on the Stadia controller. We have some good news: next week we’ll be releasing a self-serve tool to enable Bluetooth connections on your Stadia Controller. We’ll share details next week on how to enable this feature.