Valve developer Pierre-Loup Griffais recently sat down for an insightful interview, clarifying that SteamOS is not designed to compete directly with Microsoft's Windows. Dive deeper into why Valve's approach with SteamOS is more about providing choice than rivalry.
Valve Dev Shares Insights on SteamOS and Windows
SteamOS: Not Out to Kill Windows
In a detailed interview with the French site Frandroid on January 9, 2025, Pierre-Loup Griffais, a key developer behind SteamOS, emphasized that their goal is not to eliminate Windows. When asked if SteamOS is a "Windows killer," Griffais responded, "I don't think the goal is to have a certain market share, or to push users away from Windows. If a user has a good experience on Windows, there's no problem."
Griffais elaborated, "I think it's interesting to develop a system that has different goals and priorities, and if it becomes a good alternative for a typical desktop user, that's great. It gives them choice. But it's not a goal in itself to convert users who already have a good experience."
This approach underscores Valve's commitment to enhancing user options, particularly for those focused on gaming experiences.
Lenovo’s SteamOS-Powered Handheld Device Unveiled
While Microsoft continues to dominate the PC operating system market with its latest iteration, Windows 11, Lenovo has introduced a new contender at CES 2025. The Lenovo Legion GO S, a new handheld device, will run on SteamOS, allowing users to directly access Steam's extensive game library.
This marks the first time SteamOS, famously used in the Steam Deck, has been integrated into a device outside Valve's own hardware. Though not yet a direct competitor to Windows in the broader market, Griffais assures that "it’s going to continue to expand over time." This development could prompt Microsoft to reassess its strategies as SteamOS gains compatibility with more devices.
Microsoft’s Strategy: Blending Xbox and Windows
In response to Valve's moves, Microsoft's VP of "Next Generation," Jason Ronald, unveiled plans at the same event to integrate "the best of Xbox and Windows together." As the handheld market heats up with competitors like the Switch and Steam Deck, Microsoft aims to place "the player and their library at the center of the experience."
However, details on how Microsoft will execute this vision are still sparse, as their handheld device remains in development. Stay tuned to our news section for more updates on Microsoft's evolving plans in the gaming arena.
