They had originally intended to release the project in the Spring, however the global outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and imposing of lockdown resulted in a temporary delay of promotion.

[5][6][7] On 7 September 2020, Steps announced the release of their sixth studio album, called What the Future Holds, via their social media accounts.

"[8] The title track was revealed as the lead single on the same day while a supporting arena tour of the United Kingdom was announced on 8 September, set to take place in November 2021.

[10] Written by Sia and Greg Kurstin, the song's lyrics are "a reflection how they feel now as a group and how far they've come" since their formation 23 years prior.

"[12] In contrast, Roisin O'Connor of the Independent wrote, "So it’s amusing that this year’s What the Future Holds, a sugary rush of high-octane bangers, fits so well into 2020’s onslaught of maximalist dance-pop.

"[14] Harrison Smith of Gigwise shared the same opinion stating, "whilst the group may have a staple sound, they are more than willing to adapt to current trends.

"[15] musicOMH's Nick Smith described the album as "bold and brilliant," saying "it’s rather refreshing to hear Steps revelling so exultantly in the unashamedly feel-good aspect of their sound.

"[16] Renowned for Sound's Brendon Veevers stated, "It is without a doubt pop quintet Steps who deliver THE record of the year ... still producing top grade hits.

"[17] What the Future Holds debuted at number two on the UK Albums Chart on December 4, 2020, with first-week sales of 37,394 units (9,000 copies behind Gary Barlow's Music Played by Humans after a week of close battle).

"[21] Pip Ellwood-Hughes for Entertainment Focus believed the song "gleefully celebrates the past via a classic, ABBA-esque chorus, a joyous key change and a brilliantly unexpected staggered outro".