Steam Link could finally be about to make its debut on iOS.
After Apple updated its App Store guidelines for remote desktop clients, Steam Link for iOS has been updated to prevent players from making purchases on iPhone and iPad. The change almost certainly means that the app is being readied for an imminent App Store release.
Steam Link had been pre-approved by Apple before Valve announced that it was coming to Apple TV and iOS. However, Apple changed its mind during a subsequent review process, and Steam Link was rejected due to “business conflicts.”
Valve has been quiet about Steam Link’s release on iOS ever since, and some suspected it had given up on bringing the service to Apple devices. But gamers were given some hope when Apple updated its App Store guidelines to make things a little easier for remote desktop services.
Steam Link updated for iOS
Now, those who were granted early access to a Steam Link beta for iOS have noticed that it was this week updated to remove the ability to make purchases remotely. Players must return to their computers to carry out in-app purcases, which aren’t allowed on iOS.
The update all but confirms Valve is taking steps to comply with Apple’s strict App Store guidelines. And if that’s the case, Steam Link could be ready to hit the App Store any day now. There would be no update at all if the company had indeed given up on an iOS release.
“Interestingly enough, you can still totally interact with the Steam Marketplace using funds that you already have in your Steam wallet,” reports TouchArcade, which has access to the Steam Link beta .“But it doesn’t seem like any of the buttons to actually add funds to my wallet work in the app.”
“Technically, by the letter of the new Apple guidelines, the Steam Link app is fully in compliance.”
When will Steam Link hit the App Store?
We still don’t have a release date for Steam Link for iOS; Valve hasn’t commented publicly since it announced that the app had been rejected by Apple. But this is incredibly promising news, and it shows the company is willing to make changes to ensure iOS support.
Steam Link for Android is also being beta tested, and anyone can download the preview version from Google Play.
As soon as we hear more from Valve, we’ll be sure to update you.
