Tesla's Shocking Move: Why Your New Model S and X Can't Play Steam Games Anymore
Tesla, renowned for its innovation and bold advances, has stirred the pot once again, but this time, it comes with a pinch of disappointment for gamers. The electric vehicle giant recently announced that new Model S and Model X buyers will no longer be able to access Steam gaming within their vehicles. This news has come as a surprise, especially since Tesla had heavily invested in integrating extensive video gaming capabilities into its in-car entertainment system.
A Promising Start
Earlier this year, Tesla enthusiasts were thrilled to hear about the company's plans to integrate Valve’s Steam, an online video game store and distribution platform, directly into their vehicles. The prospect was not just exciting but also unprecedented, promising a vast library of games, including high-performance titles, right at your fingertips inside the Tesla. It seemed Tesla was all set to revolutionize how passengers experienced in-car entertainment.
By late 2022, Tesla officially launched its Steam Beta native app for new Model S and Model X vehicles, marking a significant milestone in their entertainment offerings. The integration allowed owners to immerse themselves in a gaming experience like no other, creating a buzz in the tech and automotive world.
The Sudden Shift
However, the enthusiasm was short-lived. Tesla communicated to new Model S and Model X buyers taking delivery that the vehicles would no longer support Steam gaming. Tesla stated: “Tesla is updating the gaming computer in your Model X, and your vehicle is no longer capable of playing Steam games. All other entertainment and app functionalities are unaffected.” This abrupt change means that while the vehicles retain other entertainment options, the expansive gaming promise via Steam is off the table.
Interestingly, current owners of these new model vehicles seem not to be affected by this decision, preserving their ability to use the Steam Beta app. Tesla's past behavior aligns with this move, such as removing Disney Plus from new vehicles while keeping it available for those already delivered.
Thinking Behind the Decision
Many may wonder why Tesla decided to drop such a highly anticipated feature so soon. It seems plausible that the gaming platform didn't garner the user engagement Tesla had hoped for. Despite the initial excitement, practical issues might have led to the low usage of Steam within the vehicles. Moreover, the limitations of an in-car gaming rig compared to dedicated mobile gaming devices like laptops or a Steam Deck could have contributed to its underwhelming adoption.
Electrek's Perspective
Electrek’s insights align with the sentiment that while gaming inside a Tesla was an intriguing concept, it was perhaps better suited for mobile gaming devices. The in-car experience, although innovative, likely faced constraints in performance and practicality. The decision to remove Steam may thus reflect a pivot to concentrate resources on more universally appreciated entertainment options or perhaps to await more advanced in-car computing hardware in future models.
In the end, while Tesla's move might be a letdown for some, it showcases the company's agility and willingness to reevaluate its offerings based on real-world usage and feedback. For gamers who prioritized this feature, alternatives like a gaming laptop or the Steam Deck remain robust options for their on-the-go adventures.
For more insights and updates on the latest in automotive innovations and Tesla’s evolving features, stay tuned to Super Veloce.