Pierre T.
# VALVE INTRODUCES TRAVELING NOTEPAD IN STEAM OVERHAUL
Valve has recently announced a massive User Interface (UI) overhaul to Steam’s In-Game Overlay as part of its latest beta release. The update includes the addition of a traveling notepad that functions to sync notes seamlessly via the cloud, even while offline. Unlike regular notepad apps, Valve’s notes app can automatically pop up the correct file that corresponds to the game you are playing and overlay on top of it.
# NEW FEATURES ON TOP OF YOUR GAME
Aside from the traveling notepad, Valve also introduced new windows that can be pinned on top of the screen while playing games. Guides, Discussions, and the Steam web browser have adjustable opacity and can be summoned while playing games. You can even watch videos using the browser while playing your favorite game.
Valve redesigned the notifications tab and screenshot manager and added a new Game Overview feature. The toolbar offers quick access to anything you may need in the middle of a game.
# ADDITIONAL FEATURES FOR LINUX AND MAC
Finally, Valve announced the introduction of optional hardware acceleration for the Linux version of Steam, with Mac on the way. This update also incorporates minor UI tweaks across the interface.
# A SIMULTANEOUS UPDATE FOR STEAM DESKTOP AND BIG PICTURE MODE
Steam is getting an overhaul in its Desktop, Big Picture Mode, and Steam Deck, but as of now, the Deck only has the Linux desktop mode. Lawrence Yang confirms that features like the new Notes mode will also be available in the Deck gaming mode later on.
# OPTING IN TO THE BETA
To see any of these changes, you’ll need to opt into a Steam Beta for now. Valve will eventually add these unique features to a stable release.
Sources:
– https://steamcommunity.com/games/593110/announcements/detail/3686801719529689368
– https://help.steampowered.com/en/faqs/view/276C-85A0-C531-AFA3
