Valve Expands SteamOS Support to Third-Party Handhelds

The handheld gaming scene has been heating up for a while now. Windows 11 handhelds enjoyed a safe lead thanks to SteamOS being primarily tied to the Steam Deck, even though some enthusiasts managed to get SteamOS running on other systems through unofficial methods. But Valve has always been open about their intention to bring SteamOS to third-party devices, and now it’s finally happening.

SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview Brings Exciting Updates

Valve has officially announced the SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview, available for testers to try out. You can read their full statement on the Steam website. This update introduces several new features and improvements, but the highlight is the first step toward supporting non-Steam Deck handhelds. This marks a big moment, as SteamOS is poised to become a go-to operating system for handheld gaming devices beyond the Steam Deck.

If you’re curious about why everyone’s excited, check out why SteamOS is considered a better option than Windows for gaming handhelds. For those who love a debate, you might also explore reasons why some users prefer sticking with Windows on their devices.

Key Features in the SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview

Here’s a quick look at the most notable updates in this release:

• Support for Non-Steam Deck Handhelds: Valve is beginning support for third-party handhelds, opening the door for wider SteamOS adoption.
• Updated Linux Kernel and Graphics Driver: SteamOS now runs on Linux kernel 6.11 with an updated Mesa graphics driver base.
• Desktop Upgrades: Desktop mode ships with Plasma 6.2.5, bringing significant improvements in usability.
• Improved Controller Support: Fixes for issues with Switch Pro Controllers, AirPods, and expanded functionality for Bluetooth controllers.
• Better Performance: Speed, responsiveness, and robustness improvements when switching between modes or running on low resources.
• Enhanced System Features: Fixes for DNS issues, system updates, and added support for features like Plasma Vaults.

Full Patch Notes for SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview

This update is packed with new features, bug fixes, and system enhancements. Here’s the full list of updates:

• Updated to a newer Arch Linux base.
• Updated the Linux kernel to 6.11.
• Updated the Mesa graphics driver base.
• Desktop mode now ships with Plasma 6.2.5.
• Beginnings of support for non-Steam Deck handhelds.
• Added support for the Proteus Byowave controller.
• Fixed issues with Switch Pro Controller gyros and stuck inputs when exiting Steam.
• Fixed Bluetooth devices waking the Steam Deck even when disabled in Desktop mode.
• Enabled HFP/HSP profiles for headset microphones (Desktop mode only).
• Added battery level display for supported Bluetooth devices.
• Fixed AirPods issues with the AAC codec.
• Compatibility improvements for certain displays like TCL FireTV models and Dell VRR monitors.
• Enabled AMD P-State CPU frequency control.
• Fixed performance regression for “No Rest for the Wicked.”
• Added KDE Filelight for disk usage visualization and low disk space notifications.
• Improved responsiveness during out-of-memory situations.
• Enabled IPv6 Privacy Extensions by default.
• Fixes for DNS compatibility issues causing slow domain lookups.
• Swap file setup now uses standard ‘mkswap’ functionality.
• Various bug fixes and system enhancements.

For the full technical breakdown, you can check out the official patch notes on Valve’s announcement.

What’s Next for SteamOS?

Valve’s commitment to expanding SteamOS to more devices is a big deal for the handheld gaming market. As the platform continues to grow, it’s clear that SteamOS is positioning itself as a serious contender against Windows for gaming-focused devices. Whether you’re already a fan or just curious, this update is worth keeping an eye on.

Ready to dive into SteamOS? Test out the new features in the SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview today!