Valve Developer: SteamOS Not Aimed at Killing Windows

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 to understand Valve's perspective on SteamOS and its relationship with Windows.

Valve Dev Shares Insights on SteamOS and 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 undermine Windows. When asked if SteamOS was intended as 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 further explained, "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 highlights Valve's focus on providing an alternative that caters specifically to gamers, rather than directly competing with Windows.

Lenovo Unveils Steam-Powered Handheld Device

While Microsoft continues to dominate the PC operating system market with Windows 11, Lenovo made waves at CES 2025 by announcing the Lenovo Legion GO S, a new handheld device powered by SteamOS. This move marks the first time SteamOS, known from the Steam Deck, is being used on a device outside of Valve's own hardware. Although it's not yet a direct competitor to Windows in the broader market, Griffais noted that "it’s going to continue to expand over time." This expansion could prompt Microsoft to reassess its strategies as SteamOS gains compatibility with more devices.

Microsoft's Strategy to Merge Windows and Xbox

In response to Valve's developments, Microsoft's VP of "Next Generation," Jason Ronald, shared at the same event that the company aims to integrate "the best of Xbox and Windows together." Amidst the growing handheld market, dominated by devices like the Switch and Steam Deck, Microsoft is focusing on placing "the player and their library at the center of the experience." However, details on how Microsoft plans to achieve this are still under wraps, as their handheld device remains in development.

For more insights into Microsoft's plans, be sure to check out our related news article.