Stadia 4.16 is now available via the Google Play Store and includes 1440p streaming preparations, in-app help enhancements, and more.
Regarding APK Insight:
This “APK Insight” post decompiles the most recent version of an application that Google uploaded to the Play Store. When we decompile these files (known as APKs in the case of Android applications), we are able to identify several lines of code that allude to potential future features. Keep in mind that Google may or may not ever implement these features, and that our description of them may be inaccurate. We will attempt to enable those that are closer to completion to demonstrate how they will appear if they ship. In light of this, please read on.
Streaming in 1440p is a possibility.
In the previous update to the Android app for Stadia, we discovered a reference to “UPTO 1440P” that suggested Google may be preparing a new resolution tier for the service. Technically, Stadia is already capable of streaming at 1440p on desktops and laptops with a screen resolution greater than 1440p but less than 4K.
As pointed out by Chris Klay, developer of the outstanding Stadia Enhanced extension, when Stadia streams at 1440p on desktops today, you are actually viewing a downscaled version of the 4K stream, not a native 1440p stream.
Now it appears Google may add 1440p support to the app’s menus as an official option for Stadia. The most recent hint is a snippet of text describing a new level of data usage not currently present in the application.
The new tier fits nicely between the 12.6GB per hour used by 1080p streaming and the 20GB per hour used by Stadia Pro’s 4K tier, further confirming that a 1440p tier is likely on the horizon. However, it is currently unclear whether this is intended for Android devices with a 1440p display or Android TV-powered televisions.
In-app help
There is a simple “Help” button within the Stadia app’s menus that opens your web browser to Google Stadia’s support pages. Indications of an in-app system to contact a Stadia support agent suggest that Google may have new plans for obtaining help with Stadia.
Another possibility is that the app is simply generating a modified version of the link below, which will provide support agents with the data they need to more accurately diagnose your issue.
Touch controller individualization.
Google has been enhancing Stadia’s touchscreen game controller in recent updates, most recently paving the way for game-specific touch controls. In Stadia 4.16, Google may be planning additional touch controller customization, such as adjusting the size of touch buttons.
Odds ‘n’ ends
A few new references to Ubisoft+ Rewards have been added to the app’s text, suggesting that the relationship between Stadia and Ubisoft is continuing. If you have a valid Ubisoft+ subscription, it is possible that you will be able to claim these rewards directly from the Stadia app.
Numerous new ratings descriptors from the ESRB, PEGI, and USK have been added to the Stadia app, though it’s possible that this is just routine maintenance and not a sign of upcoming games.