LG, in collaboration with Razer and MediaTek, has developed a new Bluetooth gaming controller designed to significantly reduce input lag for cloud-based gaming. This innovative controller is the first to utilize Ultra-Low Latency (ULL) Bluetooth technology, a promising standard aimed at matching the responsiveness of wired controllers.
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At LG’s webOS Summit, a demonstration compared the BT ULL-enabled controller to a standard controller. The demonstration highlighted the superior responsiveness, reduced input lag, and control precision of the BT ULL technology across various cloud-based games, including FPS, fighting, and racing titles.
Input lag on Bluetooth controllers can vary, but anything below 10-20 milliseconds is desirable. Wired controllers typically offer lower input latency, making them appealing to competitive gamers. Razer’s new ULL Bluetooth gaming controller was reportedly demonstrated with an impressive 1ms input lag.
Google previously attempted to address controller input latency issues with its Stadia service by allowing the controller to connect directly over Wi-Fi to Google’s datacenters. After Stadia’s closure, Google released an update to enable Bluetooth on Stadia controllers for use with PCs, Macs, phones, and other devices.
Bluetooth ULL support is being integrated into select LG 120Hz OLED and mini-LED TVs equipped with MediaTek’s MT7921 WiFi chipset, scheduled for launch in 2025. LG also plans to introduce a certification program for third-party ULL-supported controllers to ensure seamless compatibility with LG webOS smart TVs. Razer is the first company to qualify for this certification.
While there is no official name, release date, or pricing information available for the new Razer controller yet, we may receive more details at the upcoming CES event in January 2025.
