Steam PC gaming platform getting iPhone and Android app
Valve have announced that their Steam PC gaming platform will soon be accessible through an iOS iPhone and Android app.
Though available to download now from Apple’s App Store and the Android Market, Steam Mobile’s full features are currently only available to those who have been chosen to beta test the service.
According to the press release, the app will allow gamers to “chat with Steam friends, browse community groups and user profiles, view screenshots and user-generated content for their favorite games, read the latest gaming news, stay up to date on unbeatable Steam sales, and more”.
So, no actual game playing, but more-or-less full access to all the other features on offer from the Steam platform.
“The Steam app comes from many direct requests from our customers,” said Gabe Newell, co-founder and president of Valve.
“Seeing which of your friends are online and playing a game, sending quick messages, looking at screenshots for an upcoming game, or catching a sale – these are all features customers have requested. Mobile is changing the way people interact, play games and consume media, and the Steam app is part of our commitment to meet customer demands and expand the service functionality of Steam to make it richer and more accessible for everyone.”
To be in with a chance of trying the service early, download the app now, sign in with your Steam account, and wait for Valve to send you a beta invite.
It sounds like a great idea from the Steam team, who have a solid handle on giving their community exactly what they want. Things could get a bit dangerous come the annual Steam Sales and daily deals though; there’s no excuse not to splash the cash on some PC gaming goodness now, even if you’re out and about away from your computer.
