AI · SEMICONDUCTOR · FACT CHECK
SKD WIRETrue
A recent Steam beta update automatically configures non-Steam Windows applications added to a user's library to launch through Proton, Valve's compatibility layer for running Windows software on Linux. The change means titles and programs added manually via the "Add a Non-Steam Game" feature now default to Proton rather than Linux-native execution.
Under the new beta client, Windows applications that users add to Steam — including games and other software not purchased through the storefront — are set to run under Proton by default. Previously, such applications launched natively unless the user manually enabled Proton in the app's compatibility settings.
The shift streamlines the process of running Windows-only software on Linux systems via Steam Play, reducing the setup steps required for titles outside Valve's official compatibility program. Users who prefer native execution or a specific Proton version can still adjust the setting per application in the properties menu.
The update applies to the Steam beta client, with no indication in the available information of when or whether the behavior will carry over to the stable release.
Proton translates Windows API calls to run Windows games and applications on Linux, and has become central to Linux gaming on devices such as the Steam Deck. Automatically routing added Windows apps through Proton aligns the treatment of manually added software with how Steam handles compatible purchased titles.
The report concludes that the claim is True.
