Google to Discontinue Steam Compatibility on Chromebooks by 2026
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The Steam for Chromebook Beta, which launched in March 2022 and reached beta status in November of the same year, will cease to function on January 1st, 2026[1][2][3]. This decision means that games installed via the Steam client on Chromebooks will no longer be playable after this date[1][2][3].
Despite this, Google has hinted at a future for Chromebook gaming, but has not yet provided specific details on what this future might entail[1][3][4]. The company's statement suggests a potential evolution for Chromebooks, as they merge ChromeOS with Android[1][2][3].
The Steam for Chromebook Beta used the Linux version of the game client, and required relatively capable processors (Intel Core i3/AMD Ryzen 3 minimum; Core i5/Ryzen 5 recommended) and 8–16 GB of RAM[3]. Google maintains a list of compatible titles for Steam for Chromebook Beta, which currently consists of around 99 games[1][3].
Google's collaboration with Valve on Steam for Chromebooks was part of a broader initiative to enhance gaming options on ChromeOS, alongside Android apps and cloud game streaming platforms such as NVIDIA GeForce Now[2][3].
One widely speculated direction for Chromebook gaming’s future is leveraging the ongoing technical merging of ChromeOS with Android, making Android games (available via the Google Play Store) and cloud streaming more central to the gaming experience on Chromebooks[2][3]. Alternatives like cloud gaming (e.g., GeForce Now) remain viable for Chromebook users due to their low hardware requirements, relying instead on strong internet connectivity[2].
The message displayed on Steam for ChromeOS currently states: "We appreciate your participation in and contribution to learnings from the beta program, which will inform the future of Chromebook gaming," implying plans to continue supporting gaming on ChromeOS but possibly through other means[1][2][3][4]. Google plans to create the 'ChromeOS experience on top of Android', which could potentially affect the user interface and overall user experience of Chromebooks[1][2][3].
Google has not yet announced a successor to Steam for Chromebook or other native PC game clients. However, the end of the Steam for Chromebook Beta does not necessarily mean the end of gaming on Chromebooks. Android apps from the Play Store will always be available for local games on Chromebooks, as well as streaming services[1][2][3].
[1] https://www.pcgamer.com/steam-for-chromebook-beta-will-end-in-early-2026/ [2] https://www.engadget.com/steam-for-chromebook-beta-will-end-in-early-2026-120235335.html [3] https://www.theverge.com/2022/11/15/23464596/steam-for-chromebook-beta-launches-november-2022-google-chromeos-android [4] https://www.tomshardware.com/news/steam-for-chromebook-beta-to-end-in-early-2026
In light of the upcoming discontinuation of the Steam for Chromebook Beta, there is anticipation for the future of Chromebook gaming, which Google suggests might involve the convergence of ChromeOS and Android, potentially including support for Android games and cloud streaming services. As an alternative, cloud gaming platforms like NVIDIA GeForce Now remain viable for Chromebook users, prioritizing strong internet connectivity over high hardware specifications.
