NVIDIA released the beta version of its native GeForce Now app for Linux desktops on February 3, 2026, following a tease at CES 2026. Available as a Flatpak for Ubuntu 24.04 LTS and newer, it enables high-performance cloud gaming up to 5K at 120 FPS (or 1080p at 360 FPS) powered by RTX 5080 GPUs, matching Windows and macOS capabilities with DLSS 4, ray tracing, NVIDIA Reflex, and G-Sync.
The app, distributed via NVIDIA's website, addresses previous browser-based limitations like latency and controller issues on Linux PCs, surpassing the Steam Deck-optimized experience (up to 1200p at 90 FPS). It supports distributions like Fedora with varying stability on others such as Bazzite or Nobara, but is currently limited to 64-bit x86 hardware (no ARM).
Ultimate tier subscribers access Blackwell-grade RTX 5080 servers for 5K/120 FPS streams, real-time ray tracing, and eight-hour sessions. Priority tier offers 1440p/60 FPS for six hours, while free tier has limits and lower priority. System requirements emphasize stable high-speed internet and Vulkan-capable GPUs for H.264/H.265 decoding, with NVIDIA recommending driver R580+ on X.Org or Mesa 24.2+ on Wayland for AMD/Intel graphics.
GeForce Now now supports over 4,500 games across seven platforms, including the new Linux app alongside Windows, macOS, Chromebooks, Android, iOS/iPadOS, smart TVs, and Amazon Fire TV Stick. The launch coincides with ten new titles: The Midnight Walkers (Steam, Jan. 28), Cairn (Steam, Jan. 29), Prototype and Prototype 2 (Ubisoft Connect, Jan. 29), Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 (Xbox, Game Pass, Jan. 29), Half Sword (Steam, Jan. 30), Vampires: Bloodlord Rising (Steam, Jan. 30), The Bard’s Tale Trilogy (Steam/Xbox, Game Pass), The Bard’s Tale IV: Director’s Cut (Steam/Xbox, Game Pass), and Total War: Three Kingdoms (Epic Games Store). Upcoming releases include Delta Force (Feb. 3), Resident Evil Requiem, and 007 First Light, all optimized for the service.
NVIDIA stated: “Starting with support for Ubuntu 24.04 and later, the new app delivers a seamless native experience... at up to 5K resolution and 120 frames per second, or 1080p at 360 fps.” Early beta users reported minor issues on some distributions. Download from NVIDIA's site with dedicated support.
