The Steam library will become inaccessible in 2024 for those who still have Windows 7, 8 and 8.1. Updating to a newer OS is recommended by Valve.
Microsoft no longer provides support for Windows 7, 8 and 8.1, sometimes for a long time. However, there are still people around the world who use these two old operating systems, despite the absence of patches to plug the gaps detected over time. Worldwide, 7% of Windows OS belong to these two generations, according to February figures.
Steam will no longer work on Windows 7, 8 and 8.1 in 2024
A figure which could however plunge sharply by the end of the year. The video game studio Valve has made the decision to no longer ensure compatibility of Steam with Windows 7 and 8. As a result, the software will no longer be able to be launched after January 1, 2024. This decision can be found on a support page for the platform, which Ars Technica echoed on March 29.
There is still a small percentage of gamers who access Steam with Windows 7 and 8. In the hardware statistics provided by the service, this audience represents approximately 2% of all individuals on Windows. The vast majority of people use Windows 10 (two out of three players). Windows 11 is the last big third.
Obviously, Steam invites those who have kept their ties to these two ancient OSes not to wait until the last minute to switch to an OS. If only to limit exposure to flaws and malicious acts. But if in 2023 we still find traces of use of Windows 7 and 8, it is because this argument does not fly with this public.
There are two reasons why Steam is turning this page – leaving another nine months for the ultimate laggards. First, there is the fact that some features of the tool are based on Google Chrome, which has also moved away from Windows 7 and 8. For Steam to evolve further, it must follow the development of the web browser of the internet giant.
Valve must also consider the development of its service, both in terms of security and functionality. However, some components require at least Windows 10. The nature of these elements is not specified. The update is therefore essential so as not to be unable to access its toy library and play its video games.
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