Key Takeaways
1. Users can now attach their hardware specifications when writing or editing game reviews on Steam, helping to clarify performance issues.
2. Valve introduced an optional feature to share anonymized framerate data to improve game compatibility insights without linking to user accounts.
3. The framerate data collection targets devices using SteamOS, like the Steam Deck, where performance discussions are common.
4. It is currently unclear how much of the attached hardware specifications will be visible to other users during the beta phase.
5. The update also includes various improvements, such as fixes for streaming issues, offline mode for Linux/Proton, and options for Steam Deck users to comment on Deck Verified ratings.
Valve has begun implementing a new update for the Steam Client Beta that allows users to attach their hardware specifications when they write or edit a review on a game’s store page.
Purpose of the Update
The concept is quite simple: when users have performance issues like stuttering, crashes, or low frame rates, it’s difficult to evaluate these problems without knowing the reviewer’s hardware setup. With this new beta feature, users can easily include their specs without needing to type them manually into the review.
Additional Features
In this same beta release, Valve has also introduced an optional setting that allows users to share “anonymized framerate data.” According to Valve, this gameplay FPS information is “stored without connection to your Steam account” and will be used to “gain insights on game compatibility and enhance Steam.”
This FPS collection feature currently targets devices using SteamOS, which includes hardware similar to the Steam Deck, where issues regarding performance and compatibility are frequently discussed.
Display of Attached Specs
One complication is that, at least in the early stages of the beta, it’s unclear how much of the attached specifications will be visible to other users. Reports from third parties indicate that while the feature is present in the review process, the hardware details may not be accessible to readers during the beta phase.
Valve’s update notes do not clarify which specific fields will be displayed (other than “hardware specs”) or if the display will change before it becomes part of the stable client.
To join the Steam Client Beta and make use of the new hardware review functionalities, users can:
Valve has combined the review/specs feature and FPS options with other updates to the client, which includes tweaks to Steam Families navigation. This update addresses a streaming issue that could limit downloads after streaming has stopped, a fix for offline mode in Linux/Proton for very large libraries, and a prompt for Steam Deck users who disagree with a Deck Verified rating to optionally state their reasons.
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