Nvidia Launches Native GeForce Now App for Linux

Nvidia has launched a native application for its GeForce Now cloud gaming service on Linux, providing users with improved performance and access to a broader range of games. The app, now available for Ubuntu 24.04 and later versions, marks a significant upgrade from the previous browser-based access and expands the platform's reach to desktop and laptop users on the open-source operating system.

The release, announced this week, uses a Flatpak installer, which Nvidia states is compatible with other Linux distributions, though official support begins with Ubuntu. As a beta version, the app may encounter occasional issues, but it delivers enhanced streaming capabilities compared to the web version. Users can now stream games at up to 5K resolution and 120 frames per second on the Ultimate tier, or 1080p at 360 frames per second, far exceeding the browser's limits of 1440p and 120 frames per second. These improvements include better input latency, additional resolution options, and support for Nvidia's Reflex technology to reduce lag.

To run the app, systems require graphics hardware capable of H.264 or H.265 video decoding, though AV1 support is not yet included. Nvidia recommends...