Valve’s SteamOS isn’t really trying to go head-to-head with Windows.
A developer from Valve, Pierre-Loup Griffais, discussed this with Frandroid, a French outlet, explaining that their mission is to get their software working smoothly across a wide range of hardware. This news is quite timely, coinciding with Lenovo’s announcement of its Legion Go S, marking it as the first third-party device using SteamOS.
Griffais mentioned, “It’s not about carving out a segment of the market or steering users away from Windows. If someone is happy with Windows, that’s perfectly fine. What we want is to create a system with different goals and priorities. If it ends up being a solid option for the average desktop user, that’s fantastic. It gives them an option. But converting users who are already satisfied isn’t exactly what we’re trying to accomplish.”
Valve isn’t aiming to bring back the Steam Machine model, even with the current buzz around their Steam Deck hardware.
Griffais elaborated, “For now, our attention is on handheld devices. As we grow, our ability to work across different platforms and provide a great experience in various formats will expand. We’ve already done plenty to ensure these consoles can hook up to screens and work with controllers. We’re not ready yet to prioritize a Steam Machine. But whether it’s through partnerships or our internal efforts, that door remains open for the future.”