Steam clarification: Purchased games don't actually belong to you
A new California law requires providers of digitally distributed software and music to clearly indicate whether they are selling ownership or merely a usage license. This highlights the fact that when you buy games on platforms like Steam, you're often only purchasing the right to use the game, not full ownership.
Steam now includes a notice in the shopping cart stating that when purchasing digital products (such as software), users are only acquiring a license, not ownership. This change likely responds to California's new consumer protection law (AB 2426), which requires sellers of digital goods to clarify if only a license is being sold. The law forbids using terms like "buy" or "purchase" without explicitly informing consumers about the usage limitations, such as the possibility of the seller revoking access if rights are no longer held.
The update affects not only U.S. customers but also those using the German version of Steam, where the notice is now visible. Although Steam has long included this information in its fine print, the new notice in the shopping cart ensures that consumers are explicitly informed about the license conditions during every purchase.