Nvidia GeForce Now Soars to New Heights: Linux, Fire TV, and Flight Controls Take Center Stage
Nvidia’s GeForce Now cloud gaming service is set for a significant expansion, bringing highly anticipated features to a broader audience. Following the successful rollout of its RTX 5080 infrastructure, the tech giant is now set to launch native applications for Linux and Amazon Fire TV devices, alongside groundbreaking support for flight simulation controls. These updates, announced at CES 2026, promise to enhance accessibility and immersion for gamers worldwide.
Native Linux App: A Long-Awaited Arrival
For years, Linux users have clamored for a dedicated GeForce Now application, often resorting to unofficial clients or browser workarounds. Nvidia is finally answering that call, with a native Linux app slated for release. Initially, a beta version will be available for Ubuntu 24.04 and newer distributions, building on Nvidia’s previous efforts to streamline GeForce Now access on Linux-based SteamOS.
Michael McSorley, Nvidia’s product marketing manager, explained the strategic choice of Ubuntu 24.04 in a briefing with The Verge: “Right now, the GeForce Now Linux app is going to launch first as a beta on Ubuntu 24.04 primarily because this is a long-term support release that enables stable graphics drivers and consistent system libraries.” He added that formal support would expand to additional Linux distributions in the coming weeks, ensuring a stable and optimized experience for a wider user base.
Bringing Cloud Gaming to the Living Room: Amazon Fire TV Integration
Nvidia is also making a concerted push to bring PC gaming seamlessly into the living room. Early this year, GeForce Now will launch native apps for select Amazon Fire TV devices, specifically the Fire TV Stick 4K Plus and 4K Max. This integration means owners can effortlessly stream a vast library of PC games directly to their televisions, requiring only a compatible controller to dive into the action. This move significantly broadens GeForce Now’s reach, transforming smart TVs into powerful gaming hubs.
Immersive Flight Simulation: Joystick and Yoke Support
Perhaps one of the most exciting announcements for simulation enthusiasts is the introduction of full flight control support. Gamers will soon be able to connect joysticks and yokes from popular brands like Thrustmaster and Logitech directly to their devices and use them with GeForce Now. This means even an underpowered laptop can become a cockpit for demanding titles like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, with all flight controls functioning perfectly within the cloud-streamed game. This feature promises an unprecedented level of immersion for aviation fans.
Streamlined Access and Future Horizons
Beyond the major app and control updates, Nvidia is also enhancing user convenience. Automatic sign-in for Battle.net accounts is being enabled this week, with Gaijin.net account support following soon. These quality-of-life improvements aim to reduce friction and get players into their games faster.
While these advancements are exciting, some regions will have to wait a little longer. The much-anticipated launch of GeForce Now in India, initially promised for last year, has been delayed to “sometime in Q1, 2026,” according to McSorley. Despite this minor setback, Nvidia’s commitment to expanding GeForce Now’s capabilities and accessibility remains clear, solidifying its position as a leader in the cloud gaming landscape.
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