Valve brings console convenience to Steam.
Valve has released a new update for Steam. You can now initiate a download to your computer or the Steam Deck from a remote Steam client (such as the app on your cell phone), even if you are not currently using the device. Anyone who uses a PlayStation or Xbox console is probably already familiar with such remote downloads.
This is how you download Steam games from your mobile phone to your PC
Steam points out in a blog post that both versions of the Steam client can download the new update. You can then select a game from your library, then select “Remote Download” and press Download. Steam also tells you directly how much storage space the game will use (source: Steam).
However, in order to download a game remotely, the target device may not be switched off and must be connected to the Internet. This is quite a restriction, because even if the PC is in energy saving mode, downloads are no longer possible.
Steam is preparing for the Steam Machine
If you shut down your PC or let it sleep while you leave the house, the new Steam feature currently has limited use. With the new update, Valve certainly wants to prepare for the release of the Steam Machine. The patch notes for the Steam client also include several adjustments for Big Picture Mode (view on Steam).
You can then easily download games to the gaming cube from your PC or cell phone. Hopefully the machine will have one have their own sleep modeduring which remote downloads are possible – a similar feature recently landed on the Steam Deck.
Unfortunately, there is still no release date for the Steam Machine. Valve wants to release the mini PC in the first half of 2026. The Steam operator’s hardware plans are now at least getting underway with the Steam Controller. The powerful but expensive controller will be released on May 4th.