Steam to Allow Users to Share PC Specs in Reviews
Valve is enhancing its Steam platform with a new feature that will allow users to share their PC hardware specifications directly within game reviews. The update, currently available in the Steam Client Beta, aims to provide more context for potential buyers and help identify performance issues related to specific hardware configurations.
Reviewers will now have the option to “attach hardware specs” when writing or updating a Steam User Review on a game’s store page, according to the release notes. This builds on the existing practice of users manually including this information in their reviews, but offers a more streamlined and standardized approach. The change is listed in the February 12, 2026 beta client notes.
To further improve game compatibility insights, Steam is also testing the ability for users to anonymously share framerate data. When enabled, the platform will collect gameplay framerate data without linking it to individual Steam accounts, but will associate it with the hardware being used. Valve explains this data will be used to learn about game compatibility and improve the Steam experience, particularly for devices running SteamOS.
The update also includes a reusable profile feature for hardware specs, allowing users to automatically apply their configurations to future reviews, eliminating repetitive data entry. PCMag reports this simplifies the process for frequent reviewers.
Beyond the review enhancements, the beta client addresses several other issues, including a fix for streaming-related download throttling and a bug that caused Proton games to be incorrectly flagged as incompatible with certain systems. A redesigned settings layout and improved navigation across desktop, mobile, and Steam Deck devices are also included. Users providing feedback on Steam Deck Verified ratings will now be asked to explain their disagreement, though this remains optional.
This move by Valve reflects a broader trend in the gaming industry towards greater transparency and user-driven data collection, ultimately aiming to improve the overall gaming experience. The ability to correlate performance data with specific hardware configurations could prove valuable for both developers and players.
