Steam has just released a new update for its client, introducing many improvements and new features. Let's take a look at the highlights of this update and find out what it means for you.
New framework, new foundation
The biggest changes in this update may not be immediately apparent, but they have far-reaching effects. Steam has revamped its codebase to enable faster implementation and iteration of new features. Many features will now be released simultaneously on the Steam Deck, as they use the same codebase.
Steam gets a new look
The update brings targeted visual and user-friendly improvements to Steam. Dialogues, menus, fonts, and colors have been updated - you'll notice that areas like the main header and footer of Steam, settings, and the screenshot manager have a new look.
Richer, more useful notifications
Notifications on Steam have been improved to be more useful for you. The green bell only lights up when there's really something new. There are also new notification-specific settings so you can control which notifications you see and where you see them.
Revamped in-game overlay
The in-game overlay has been completely revamped and now offers a brand new user interface with new features and more customization options. The new toolbar allows you to access everything you need during a game - friend chat, achievement progress, guides, discussions, a browser, and more.
Introduction of notes
The new note feature allows you to make notes about the game you're currently playing. You can use formatting options for rich text and insert images. These notes are saved per game and synchronized across all other PCs (or Steam Decks!) you're logged in to.
Pin to game
You can now pin windows from the overlay so they can be displayed on top of the game. The opacity of these windows is adjustable, and only the content of the window is pinned, without title bars and other unnecessary user interface. This feature is perfect for tracking progress or guides in the game.
Other improvements
The overlay now includes a game overview that shows you what has happened since your last game. In addition, the browser, achievement, and screenshot manager windows have been updated (both in the overlay and in the desktop client).
The controller experience has also been improved. The updated controller configurator from the Steam Deck is now part of the overlay when a gamepad is connected, and virtual menus can now also be used when playing on the desktop.
Mac and Linux
The technical work in this update enables hardware acceleration for the Mac and Linux versions of Steam, bringing them up to the same level as Windows. You should notice faster animations, smoother scrolling, and a more responsive user interface.
Conclusion
The new Steam client update brings numerous improvements and new features. If you get your games through Steam Keys, you'll now benefit from an optimized user experience. Let us know what you think of these changes and what features you'd like to see in the future!
