Steam’s new update has a ton of new features

Steam users will be able to see the new client update Valve worked on today when they boot up their computer. The update gives Steam a “fresh coat of paint” visually, promises to deliver more useful notifications, and adds a note-taking feature that we’ve found particularly useful.

But for the most part, Valve says the Steam client update’s biggest improvements come behind the scenes. “Much of the work went into changing how we share code across the Steam Desktop Client, Big Picture mode, and Steam Deck,” developers said in a blog post introducing the update. They noted that because of the newly shared codebase, many of the Steam Desktop Client’s features rolling out now are simultaneously shared with Steam Deck.

For useful features, the biggest one would be Steam’s Notes app, which Polygon previewed at the end of April. Steam will now also allow players to pin windows from its overlay to appear atop the game screen, while you’re playing. “This feature is perfect for keeping track of progress or guides while in-game,” developers said, “or for multi-tasking maniacs who love to have a movie on in the background while they game.”

Steam Desktop Client is now able to use virtual menus when playing on a desktop.

This blog entry outlines the full list of improvements, changes and features that improve quality-of life. This update is available now for all platforms, including Windows PCs, Linux and Macs.