Valve has announced that it has now released a new update to its Steam voice communication service that improves the quality of the voice technology within Steam.
Steam’s voice chat system now uses the SILK audio codec, developed and used by Skype. The SILK technology provides a greatly improved voice quality compared to Steam’s previous voice technology, but does add a little more to the bandwidth. The old system used around 15kbps of bandwidth and now the SILK voice system uses anything between 8 and 30 kbps.
Enhanced Voice Quality with SILK Codec
The introduction of the SILK audio codec marks a significant upgrade for Steam’s voice communication capabilities. SILK, which is renowned for its use in Skype, is designed to deliver crystal-clear audio, making conversations more natural and easier to understand. This is particularly beneficial for gamers who rely on clear communication during intense gameplay sessions. The codec dynamically adjusts its bitrate between 8 and 30 kbps, ensuring optimal performance based on the available network conditions. This flexibility helps maintain high voice quality even in less-than-ideal network environments.
The previous voice technology used by Steam was functional but often criticized for its lower audio quality. By switching to SILK, Steam has addressed these concerns, providing a more immersive and enjoyable experience for its users. The improved voice quality can make a significant difference in team-based games where clear communication is crucial for coordination and strategy.
How to Use the New SILK Voice Chat Feature
The new voice technology is now live and available to all Steam users. To start using the new SILK voice chat feature, simply click the ‘Start Voice Chat’ button within a friend or group chat on Steam. The integration of SILK is seamless, requiring no additional setup from the user. This ease of use ensures that all Steam users can benefit from the enhanced voice quality without any hassle.
SILK is now automatically available for all games that take advantage of the Steamworks Voice API. This means that developers who have integrated Steam’s voice chat into their games will see an immediate improvement in voice quality. Additionally, Valve has confirmed that SILK will be available in their highly anticipated game, Portal 2, arriving next month. This integration highlights Valve’s commitment to providing the best possible gaming experience for its users.
Beyond gaming, the improved voice chat can also enhance social interactions on Steam. Whether you’re catching up with friends or discussing game strategies, the clearer audio makes conversations more enjoyable. The update also positions Steam as a more competitive platform in the broader landscape of online communication tools, where high-quality voice chat is increasingly important.
The release of the SILK audio codec for Steam’s voice communication service is a significant step forward. By leveraging the advanced technology developed by Skype, Steam has substantially improved the quality of its voice chat, benefiting both gamers and social users alike. The seamless integration and automatic availability of SILK ensure that all users can enjoy these enhancements with minimal effort. As Valve continues to innovate and improve its platform, users can look forward to even more exciting updates in the future.
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