GAMERS have been warned that a gadget they may have forgotten about needs to be upgraded before the end of the year otherwise it’ll stop working forever.

The gadget in question is the Google Stadia controller.

Google bet big with it’s so-called “Netflix of gaming” that allowed people to play huge hits with nothing more than a controller and a Chromecast device.

But it failed to take-off, resulting in the platform closing down for good in January this year.

Buyers were issued refunds for their purchases and were allowed to keep the controller even though they could no longer access the games.

However, Google released a tool to allow affected users to convert the kit into a general Bluetooth controller to use on other PC games.

But you only have until December 31 to complete the conversion process.

After that, the controller will be rendered completely useless, so if you haven’t done it already consider doing it very soon.

How to switch my Stadia controller to Bluetooth mode

Firstly, ensure your Stadia controller is charged – it can’t have any less than 10 per cent for the switch to work.

From the Chrome web browser, visit this Stadia web page.

Tap the Start button to begin.

Tick the accept box to say you’re happy to proceed, followed by the Start button.

Plug your Stadia controller into your PC with a USB data cable and click Continue.

Now click Allow Chrome to verify.

A popup box should then appear and you’ll need to select the controller from the list, followed by Connect.

Hit Next.

Now, unlock the Stadia controller.

This is done by first unplugging it.

Then plugging it back in while holding the three dot button – the status light should stay off.

Finally press the three dot button, the Google Assistant button, A and Y at the same time.

To continue, click Next step on the Chrome browser again.

Now you’ll have to click Allow Chrome to download, which lets Chrome download the update to put on the controller.

Select SP Blank RT Family from the list, then Connect.

The download will then start.

Once it’s done, click Next step, which is the installation stage.

Click Allow Chrome to install.

From the popup box, select USB COMPOSITE DEVICE and Connect.

The installation will then begin – make sure you don’t unplug the controller or turn off your computer.

You can now use your Stadia controller for other wireless gaming services.

How to pair my Stadia controller with Bluetooth

Once your Stadia controller has switched to Bluetooth mode you’ll want to know how to actually use it with other gaming services.

Just hold the Stadia button and Y for about two seconds until the status light flashes orange – this will get it into pairing mode.

On the gaming device, search for a Bluetooth accessory and select it from the list.

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