Valve developer Pierre-Loup Griffais recently clarified that SteamOS isn't designed to replace Windows. Read on to understand Valve's approach and its implications.

Valve Developer Addresses SteamOS and Windows Competition

SteamOS: Not a Windows Killer, Says Valve

In a January 9, 2025 interview with French tech site Frandroid, SteamOS developer Pierre-Loup Griffais dispelled the notion that SteamOS aims to supplant Windows. Responding to a question about whether SteamOS is Valve's "Windows killer"—a reference to Valve president Gabe Newell's 2012 criticism of Windows 8—Griffais stated: "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. 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."

Instead, Griffais emphasized that SteamOS offers an alternative, particularly beneficial for gamers.

Lenovo's SteamOS-Powered Handheld: A New Contender

While Microsoft's Windows remains dominant in the PC operating system market, Lenovo's recent announcement at CES 2025 of the Lenovo Legion GO S, a handheld device running SteamOS, marks a significant development. This is the first time SteamOS, the operating system powering the Steam Deck, has been adopted by another manufacturer. Although not yet a major competitor to Windows, Griffais hinted at future expansion, stating that their work "is going to continue to expand over time." This potential growth could significantly impact Microsoft's market position.

Microsoft's Response: Blending Xbox and Windows

Microsoft's response to the growing popularity of SteamOS and handheld gaming devices, as voiced by VP of "Next Generation" Jason Ronald at CES 2025, involves integrating "the best of Xbox and Windows." The company is focusing on the player experience and game library, though details on how this strategy will play out remain scarce, with their own handheld device still under development.

For more details on Microsoft's plans, check out our related news article.