Valve has ported the Steam client to a 64-bit version, but some gamers continue to use Windows 7 and 32-bit

Developers are gradually phasing out support for older versions of the client.

Valve recently introduced an update for Steam. Now, Windows 11 and 64-bit Windows 10 will use the 64-bit version of the client.

Support for the 32-bit version of Steam is expected to end on January 1, 2026. Until that date, the client will continue to receive updates.

Some other changes and improvements:

• Added support for Nintendo Switch 2 controllers connected via USB on Windows.
• Added support for GameCube adapters in Wii-U mode with vibration on Windows.

• Fixed an issue that caused third-party browser windows to open by mistake when restarting the steamwebhelper process.
• (Big Picture): Fixed an issue with periodic in-game purchase failures in some games.
• Adjusted the creation and parameter button icons on DualSense controllers for better recognition.
• In all gyroscope modes, when selecting multiple activation buttons, you can now also specify how the on/off/switch will occur: when any or all of the selected buttons are pressed.

A full description of the December client update Steam is available at the following link.

Some gamers prefer to continue using Windows 7 - for such people, a tech enthusiast was able to make a backport of the beta version of the client that works on the outdated OS.