Valve has released the previously announced Steam Link app as an open beta. Available on Google Play, it’s designed to allow PC games to be streamed and played on smartphones and tablets. Which is somewhat similar to what PlayStation has been doing for the past few years.
Both devices must be on the same network in order for streaming to work, which generally limits this to this being at home (or in the office). The network also requires a 5GHz WiFi network, or that both devices are connected through LAN.
Steam Link supposedly supports gameplay up to 4K at 60Hz, but you’ll be hard pressed to find a connection that can stream that effectively. Even then, the app is still listed as a beta. Meaning that there will likely be performance issues while Valve sorts out the code.
The app also supports Bluetooth controllers for smartphones, allowing players an alternative input. Beyond using the clunky touch controls.
Only the Android version of Steam Link has been released for now. An iOS version has been promised, but it may only appear once the Android beta has ended.
