Steam update allows background downloading while playing a game

A new Steam update will allow users to download software while playing a game, meaning you may never have to resort to other, non-game pastimes again. This means in-progress downloads will no longer pause when a game is launched in the Steam client, though this functionality can be toggled on a case-by-case basis if your internet connection isn't up to scratch.

The update will also allow users to set times for automatic updates. Full update notes are below:

General

• Add ability to limit what time of day Steam is allowed to automatically update apps
• Add option to let other games download while a game is running (this is a per-game setting)
• Add download regions for Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, and Ottawa in Canada
• Add 'Copy all text to clipboard' context menu option in the System Information dialog.

Steam client UI

• Improve downloading status text at the bottom of the main window

Big Picture

• Added ability to opt into game betas and edit launch options
• Added Inbox item under Linux if your machine requires a reboot due to OS level updates
• Fix infinite loop of Cloud sync error dialogs on game launch
• Fixed mouse cursor being visible during startup animation even if it hadn't moved

Linux

• Fix paste pasting stale text.
• Fix Ctrl+C/Ctrl+V in client-hosted web page text controls.
• Fix incorrect foregrounding of a blank window in some -silent startup cases.