Cloud gaming: Samsung’s gaming hub for TVs and monitors is here

Samsung’s gaming hub for TVs and monitors announced at CES is now available. The software allows games from cloud gaming services like Microsoft Xbox, Nvidia GeForce Now, Google Stadia, or Utomik to be streamed directly without a PC or gaming console. Apps for Twitch, YouTube and Spotify are also integrated.

Game Center available via software update

Gaming Hub has been available since July as part of an automatic software update for new 2022 smart TVs and monitors, which are also equipped with an integrated processor and Tizen OS. Specifically, the feature “Compatible with all Samsung Smart TVs from 2022“; the Gaming Hub Official Website Name the following models:

• 65″ Neo QLED 8K QN900B (2022)
• 85″ Neo QLED 8K QN800B (2022)
• 85″ Neo QLED 4K QN95B (2022)
• 85″ Neo QLED 4K QN90B (2022)
• 85″ QLED 4K Q60B (2022)

This means that the list of compatible TVs is still very clear, older models do not enjoy it. Publishers are still trying to figure out what “smart monitors” the new game center offers, because these aren’t on the manufacturer’s lists. However, it is conceivable that at least the new generation Smart Monitor M8 will offer the feature.

According to Samsung, the devices feature lower latencies, faster decoding and a “advanced technology to control buffering‘ for less input lag. The AI ​​enhancement technique adjusts the game’s graphics and offers “4K and 8K resolution with high color accuracy and sharpness“.

Cloud gaming without a PC or console

Samsung advertises direct access to popular games with no additional hardware or downloads (other than software update for Samsung device). All you need is a fast enough internet connection, the right game controller and, if necessary, a headset. The requirements for streaming, such as the minimum bandwidth required, can be found in the information provided by the respective streaming provider.

For the service, Samsung cooperates with cloud gaming providers Microsoft (Xbox Cloud Gaming), Nvidia (GeForce Now), Google (Stadia), and Utomik. Just a month ago, Microsoft separately announced that Xbox Cloud Gaming, which is included with the Game Pass Ultimate subscription model, will also soon be available for Samsung TVs via a native app.