Google: Google has announced that by the end of 2025, the support of steam beta on Chromebook will be completely abolished. From 1 January 2026, users will neither be able to launch steam, neither install new games nor reach the platform. Even pre -installed games will be automatically removed. This step is the end of the beta program that started in 2022 in which Google and Steam together tried to bring PC gaming experience on Chromebook.
What is steam?
Steam is the world’s largest PC gaming platform, where thousands of games can be purchased, downloaded or hired. Earlier it was only available for Windows, Macos and Linux, but 99 selected PC games could also be played on Chromebook through Steam Beta. This gave Chromeos users the fun of high-quality titles.
Impact on chrombook gamers
Chromebook is famous for its light, fast and internet-focused operating system but it was not possible to run high-end AAA PC games in them. Steam Beta fulfilled this deficiency but now after its closure, users will have to depend on the Android Games of Google Play Store, where there is a shortage of PC-exclusive games.
Transition plan for users
Google has already started sending notifications of this change to Chromebook users. Steam beta will be fully active till 31 December 2025. After that, users will have to resort to cloud services like Nvidia Geforce Now or Xbox Cloud Gaming for PC-quality gaming.
Disappointment for Indian gamers
Chromebook is popular in India, especially among students and light working users. Many young gamers enjoyed PC gaming through steam beta without purchasing expensive gaming laptops. Now, due to its closure, they may have to adopt Android gaming or third-party cloud platform, which is likely to increase data consumption and subscription expenses.
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