Native Linux App Arrives
Nvidia has unveiled a full‑native Linux desktop client for its GeForce Now streaming service. The app is currently in beta and officially supports Ubuntu 24.04 and later.
Performance Highlights
The Linux client delivers the complete GeForce Now experience, including:
- Streaming at up to 5K resolution on the Ultimate tier, capped at 120 frames per second.
- Full HD streaming at a staggering 360 frames per second.
Because the software is still in beta, users may encounter occasional wonkiness.
Game Library Requirements
Only titles that are part of Nvidia’s GeForce Now catalog can be streamed, and users must own the games they wish to play.
Linux Gaming Landscape
Linux gamers have more reasons to be optimistic. SteamOS continues to progress, and an expanding library of Linux‑compatible games is expected to boost the upcoming Steam Machine. GOG has hinted at major Linux initiatives for 2026, underscored by a recent job posting.
The gradual phase‑out of Windows 10 is also nudging new users toward Linux distributions.
Compatibility Beyond Ubuntu
While Ubuntu is the only officially supported distro at launch, the app may run on other Linux distributions, though performance could be more erratic than the current beta experience.
What This Means for Linux Users
The official desktop client makes GeForce Now a more attractive option than the previously handheld‑focused offering, expanding possibilities for both desktop PCs and laptops running Linux.