Tech News
Back to home
Technology

Valve to drop Steam support for 32-bit Windows versions next year — says it's no longer compatible with core client features, only 0.01% of players actually used it

Source

Tom's Hardware

Published

TL;DR

AI Generated

Valve will discontinue support for Steam on 32-bit Windows versions starting January 1, 2026, citing incompatibility with core client features and the fact that only 0.01% of players still use it. While Steam and many games on the platform are 32-bit, the move only affects support for the operating system itself. Windows 11 is exclusively 64-bit and now holds over 60% of the OS share, according to Steam's August 2025 Hardware Survey. Valve advises users to upgrade to 64-bit Windows for continued security updates and support, aligning with Microsoft's plans to end official support for Windows 10 soon.

Read Full Article

Similar Articles

Microsoft drops Copilot branding in Notepad for Windows 11 for everyone, but it’s really just a rename

Microsoft drops Copilot branding in Notepad for Windows 11 for everyone, but it’s really just a rename

Microsoft has removed the Copilot branding from Notepad in Windows 11, renaming it to 'Writing Tools' as part of reducing unnecessary Copilot entry points. Despite the name change, AI integration remains in Notepad, with features like text rewriting and summarization still available. Microsoft is continuing to incorporate AI in Windows 11, with plans to add agents to the taskbar as an optional feature. Meanwhile, the Snipping Tool in Windows 11 has completely dropped AI integration, offering a different approach compared to Notepad.

Windows Latest•
Steam Controller leaked review points to $99 MSRP — more expensive than PS5 and Xbox controllers and Nintendo Joy-Cons

Steam Controller leaked review points to $99 MSRP — more expensive than PS5 and Xbox controllers and Nintendo Joy-Cons

A leaked review of the Steam Controller revealed a $99 price tag, making it more expensive than controllers for PS5, Xbox, and Nintendo. The controller features dual trackpads, which the reviewer highlighted as a standout feature. Valve announced the Steam Controller alongside other hardware in late 2025, but due to the chip crisis, the release has been delayed to the first half of 2026. Despite its higher price, the Steam Controller's unique features, like dual touchpads, make it a compelling option for PC gaming. Valve has yet to announce an official release date for its new hardware lineup.

Tom's Hardware•
Microsoft will allow users to indefinitely pause updates in Windows 11 — first change in over a decade to the mandatory update policy

Microsoft will allow users to indefinitely pause updates in Windows 11 — first change in over a decade to the mandatory update policy

Microsoft has announced a significant change in its update policy for Windows 11, allowing users to indefinitely pause updates. This marks the first time since Windows 10's launch in 2015 that users can pause updates indefinitely. The change aims to address user complaints about the mandatory update policy and lack of control over update timing. The new update options include delaying updates on new devices, scheduling updates, restoring normal shutdown and restart options, and providing clearer update information. Microsoft emphasizes that while users can now control updates more effectively, updates remain crucial for security and system stability.

Tom's Hardware•
Microsoft is finally giving you full control over Windows 11 updates (hands on)

Microsoft is finally giving you full control over Windows 11 updates (hands on)

Microsoft has introduced significant changes to Windows 11 updates, giving users more control. Updates now include options to skip updates during setup, pause updates indefinitely, and restart without updating. These changes aim to reduce interruptions and improve the update experience. Users can now see all available updates in one place and have separate options to restart or shut down without installing updates. Microsoft is unifying different update types and plans to streamline the update process to a single monthly restart.

Windows Latest•

We use cookies

We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. For more information on how we use cookies, please see our cookie policy.