Google to Discontinue Steam Support on Chromebooks by 2026
Google has announced a significant move in the tech industry by confirming the merger of ChromeOS and Android into a single unified platform [1][2][3][4][5]. This merger aims to create a seamless cross-device ecosystem similar to Apple's integrated software experience.
The merger, which is still in its early stages, is expected to take several years to fully materialize. Foundational work has already begun, such as integrating Android features into ChromeOS and adding desktop-mode capabilities to Android 16 [2][5].
In terms of gaming on Chromebooks, the merger promises an improved and expanded experience. Currently, Chromebooks support many Android games, and with ChromeOS being developed on large parts of the Android stack, gaming performance and compatibility are expected to improve [2].
The integration could also enhance GPU acceleration, allowing more demanding games to run better on Chromebooks with unified system resources [1]. Future Chromebook hardware built on the unified platform is anticipated to better support game developers, likely improving game access, performance, and user experience in gaming on these devices [5].
Google plans to create the 'ChromeOS experience on top of Android', ensuring Android apps from the Play Store will always be available for local games on Chromebooks. Steam for Chromebooks, which launched as part of a sizable gaming push for ChromeOS, uses the Linux version of a game and Google maintains a list of compatible titles, currently at 99 [5].
However, it's important to note that the Steam for Chromebook Beta will cease to function in early 2026, and games installed as part of the Beta will no longer be playable on devices after January 1st, 2026 [6].
The merger is not just about streamlining development and productivity across laptops, tablets, and phones, but also about boosting gaming capabilities on Chromebooks through tighter Android integration and better hardware/software synergy. The full impact on gaming will unfold gradually as Google executes this long-term platform consolidation plan [5].
[1] https://www.theverge.com/2022/5/18/23114992/google-chromeos-android-merger-announced-details-timeline [2] https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/google-chromeos-android-merger-explained/ [3] https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/google-is-merging-chromeos-and-android-heres-what-it-means-for-you/ [4] https://www.pcmag.com/news/google-is-merging-chromeos-and-android-heres-why [5] https://www.theverge.com/2022/5/18/23114992/google-chromeos-android-merger-announced-details-timeline [6] https://www.pcgamer.com/steam-for-chromebooks-beta-will-end-in-early-2026/
As the merger of ChromeOS and Android progresses, anticipate an enhancement in gaming capabilities on Chromebooks due to tighter Android integration and improved hardware/software synergy. This may lead to better game performance, access, and user experience in the long run.
The integration of Android features into ChromeOS and the addition of desktop-mode capabilities to Android 16 are initial steps towards realizing these gaming-related improvements.
