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| The latest Steam client update focuses on 64-bit Windows support and controller improvements. |
By Jon Scarr
A new Steam client update rolled out on December 19, and while it may not look like much at first, several changes here matter in practical ways. This is not the kind of update packed with big features. It is more about cleaning things up and getting Steam ready for what is coming next.
The biggest shift happens behind the scenes. Steam is now fully 64-bit on Windows 10 and Windows 11, marking a clear step forward while also setting expectations for older systems. Alongside that, Steam Input gained official support for Nintendo Switch 2 controllers on Windows, which is a welcome addition for anyone using a mix of PC and console hardware.
There are also several quality-of-life fixes tied to recording, chat safety, Remote Play, and controller configurations. Nothing flashy, but plenty that smooths out day-to-day use.
Here is what actually changes with this update.
Steam Moves Fully to 64-Bit on Windows
The biggest change is simple. Steam now runs as a 64-bit application on Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems.
For most people, this update installs automatically. You likely will not need to change anything, and you may not notice the difference immediately. Still, this shift matters. A 64-bit client allows Steam to manage memory more efficiently and opens the door for future updates that would be harder to support on older architecture.
Valve also confirmed that systems running 32-bit versions of Windows will continue receiving updates until January 1, 2026. That gives users time to plan upgrades instead of being cut off suddenly.
If you are still using a 32-bit version of Windows, nothing breaks today. This update simply makes it clear that long-term support is winding down.
Nintendo Switch 2 Controllers Now Supported on Windows
This update also brings a more hands-on improvement. Steam Input now supports Nintendo Switch 2 controllers connected over USB on Windows.
That change makes it easier to use the same controller across different setups. Steam Input handles detection and configuration, so you can plug in a Switch 2 controller and get started without extra drivers or workarounds.
If you move between PC and console play, this kind of flexibility goes a long way. One controller works across systems, and Steam takes care of the rest.
It also shows Valve is thinking ahead. Supporting new hardware early helps keep Steam adaptable as new devices enter the ecosystem.
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| Steam Input now supports Nintendo Switch 2 controllers over USB on Windows. |
Steam Input and Gyro Controls Get Smarter
If you spend time adjusting controller profiles, this update includes several useful changes. Steam Input also added support for GameCube controller adapters running in Wii U mode on Windows, including rumble support. For anyone using GameCube controllers on PC, especially for platform fighters or retro-style games, this removes another layer of setup and makes those controllers easier to use through Steam.
Gyro controls received the most attention. Steam Input now offers relative roll and pitch options for gyro-to-joystick deflection. This lets the gyro centre itself based on how you are holding the controller when activation begins, rather than relying on a fixed orientation.
There are also new options for gyro activation buttons. You can choose whether any selected button or all selected buttons are required to toggle or suppress gyro input. That extra control makes it easier to fine-tune setups across different genres.
Additional controller improvements include:
- Clearer DualSense button glyphs
- Better detection for DualSense Edge, Xbox Elite, and Joy-Cons in paired mode
- Fixes for controller configurations failing to save
- Fixes for configuration files appearing blank
- Improvements to PlayStation controller LED behaviour
These are not dramatic changes, but they reduce friction for anyone who regularly uses Steam Input.
Smaller Fixes That Clean Things Up
This update also includes a range of smaller fixes across the client. Game Recording now works more reliably when exporting or copying H.265 videos on systems using NVIDIA 50-series GPUs. Friends and Chat gained new reporting tools, allowing suspicious or harassing messages in group chats to be reported directly from the chat window, with options to block or unfriend users during submission.
Big Picture Mode received fixes for in-game purchase failures affecting some titles. Remote Play now correctly allows touch users on the Steam Link app to move the mouse between monitors.
There is also a fix for an issue where non-Steam browser windows could appear unexpectedly when Steam’s web helper restarted.
A Small Update With Real Impact
This Steam client update is not about flashy features. It focuses on stability, long-term support, and better hardware compatibility across the board.
Moving the Windows client to 64-bit lays the groundwork for future updates, while the added Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo GameCube controller support gives PC gamers more flexibility right now. The rest of the fixes address small issues that have lingered for a while, making Steam feel more consistent day to day.
It is the kind of update that fades into the background once it is installed. But over time, it quietly improves how the Steam client runs and how well it adapts to new hardware. With the Steam client update now live, it is also worth noting that the Steam Winter Sale is currently underway, making this a good time to jump back into your library or pick up something new.
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