Valve has announced that it will stop supporting 32-bit versions of Windows for the Steam app next year. Valve will continue to support 64-bit versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11 with Steam, but as of January 1, 2026, it will no longer support 32-bit versions of Windows.
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Windows 10 is the only 32-bit version of Windows still supported by Steam. Microsoft is set to end support for Windows 10 next month, but Valve will continue to support 64-bit versions of the operating system. Users will be able to play 32-bit games through the service, but they won't be able to install the app on a 32-bit version of Windows.
The current version of Steam is a 32-bit application on all versions of Windows, but that's about to change. "Future versions of Steam will only work on 64-bit versions of Windows," Valve warns in a support note. "This change is necessary as core Steam features rely on system drivers and other libraries that are not supported on 32-bit versions of Windows."
The move away from 32-bit versions of Windows won't affect many Steam users, though. Valve says the 32-bit version of Windows 10 is used by only 0.01 percent of all systems reported through Steam Hardware Research.
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This move by Valve is part of a broader trend in technology, where companies are moving away from older 32-bit architectures to focus on more modern and efficient 64-bit versions. 64-bit versions offer better performance and features, allowing applications to take full advantage of modern hardware.
This decision may seem like a small step, but it highlights the constant evolution of technology and the need to upgrade systems to stay compatible with the latest developments. Users still using 32-bit versions of Windows should consider upgrading to 64-bit versions to continue to enjoy full support and access to new features.
Additionally, this change may encourage game developers to focus more on developing titles that take advantage of 64-bit capabilities, offering better graphics and more complex gaming experiences. Moving to a fully 64-bit ecosystem may pave the way for innovations and improvements that were not possible with the limited capabilities of 32-bit.
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Overall, Valve's decision to end support for 32-bit versions of Windows reflects the evolution of technology and the need to adapt to new market demands. Users and developers should prepare for this change and consider their options to remain compatible with the latest developments in gaming and technology.
