After a successful completion of beta testing, the major Steam update is now available to every user

Since late April, Valve has been conducting beta testing for an updated version of the Steam client, which is now available to all users. The update brings numerous changes, primarily focused on improving the code sharing between the Steam desktop client, Big Picture mode, and Steam Deck. Some visible changes include updated dialog windows, menus, fonts, colors, notifications, screenshot manager, and, most notably, the in-game overlay.

The overlay, accessed by pressing Shift+Tab during gameplay, features a new interface with a toolbar that allows users to view achievements, guides, and game forums. It also provides access to the friends list for chatting and a web browser, each in separate windows that can be pinned to the screen to remain visible even when the overlay is closed. Users can adjust the position and transparency of these windows, enabling convenient multitasking such as keeping a game walkthrough open in the corner while playing or watching "Critical Role" during leveling without requiring a second screen.

I anticipate making more use of the note-taking feature introduced in the overlay, which allows users to jot down and save notes in the cloud. It offers a convenient way to keep console commands for games like Skyrim handy or reminders about the location of a locked door requiring a violet keycard in "Boltgun." The note-taking app supports text formatting, spell-checking, and code block insertion. Valve's demonstration showcases its usage during gameplay in Hollow Knight, complete with an embedded screenshot and task list entries like "save green beings" and "stop dying."

You may recall that notes were initially utilized by resourceful Counter-Strike players during beta testing. By pinning a transparent window with a star or other symbol in the desired location, they created custom crosshairs for sniper rifles without resorting to physically attaching anything to the screen like old-fashioned cheaters. It will be interesting to see if players discover other inventive uses for this feature or simply create memes.

Meanwhile, Steam notifications now allow users to choose whether they want to receive alerts for game sales from their wishlist or for item additions to their inventory, such as game cards. The new screenshot manager conveniently allows simultaneous viewing of uploaded and disk-saved snapshots. The update also introduces hardware acceleration in the Mac and Linux versions of Steam, which is a welcome addition.

If you haven't received the update yet, go to the Steam menu > Check for Steam Client Updates to initiate it. After installation, you may need to restart Steam twice for the changes to take effect. While Steam becomes more user-friendly, it still retains some of its familiar features.