Just to clarify guys - I don't expect HTC to abandon their current method of subscription, but to just offer a different channel via STEAM. For example, you can still go to GameSTOP and get a copy of Call of Duty: World at War for $49.95, or you can buy it online via STEAM for the same price, cept that STEAM will automatically keep it up to date for you, you can download a copy when ever you want no matter what PC you own or where you are (i.e. on a friends computer).
The same would apply here I think: you can still pay your $14 bucks to HTC and download the patches manually, OR, if you are running STEAM, (and find your squadmates online and message them before you get in), you can just go that route.
It's like the difference between those who like to drink coffee in a mug or in a thermos. It's still coffee, tastes like coffee, smells like coffee. What you drink it in is up to you.