New Video Game Streaming Service

Google is developing video game streaming service.

14:54 09 February 2018

Google is currently working on a new video game streaming service that could eliminate the need for a dedicated console or a high-end gaming computer. Codenamed Yeti, the service is expected to compete with Sony’s PlayStation Now service, which carries $19.95 monthly fee.

 

News of the service first broke via The Information. Gaming industry insiders say that Google is targeting a holiday 2019 release for the service but it is currently behind schedule and is thus more likely to shift launch date. 

 

Google has recently hired Phil Harrison, the former head of Sony’s network of game studies and formerly a senior member of Microsoft’s Xbox team. Since leaving both companies, he has served as an adviser and board member to various gaming companies.  

 

Google has attempted to enter the game industry before. In 2014, it almost acquired Twitch for $1billion but the deal did not push through. Since then, Google’s YouTube division has increased its presence in the video game world.