Valve Releases New Update for SteamOS
Valve has announced the release of an update for its SteamOS, marking a significant step forward in the gaming industry. This update not only supports the upcoming Steam Machine home gaming PC, but also brings forth highly anticipated features for Valve’s handheld devices. Additionally, the update extends support to other companies’ handheld devices, including the Xbox Ally series from Microsoft and Asus, the Lenovo Legion Go 2, the OneXPlayer X1, and others from MSI, GPD, Anbernic, OrangePi and Zotac. This development is a clear indication of Valve’s commitment to enhancing the gaming experience across multiple platforms.[source]
True Hibernation and Memory Power Off Modes
The highlight of the update is the addition of true hibernation and “memory power off” modes to the Steam Deck. This feature, which will be available for the LCD model, will extend the battery life when the power button is pressed or left idle. Many Windows machines currently outlast the Steam Deck when in sleep mode because they automatically hibernate to save power. The Steam Deck, on the other hand, has an instant sleep mode. This new hibernation feature is expected to level the playing field in this regard.
Improved Bluetooth and LCD Screen Functionality
Among the new features, Valve has added a setting in its game mode that allows the use of Bluetooth headset’s microphones. This functionality, which was added to Linux Desktop Mode last year, is now available for the Steam Deck. Moreover, the Steam Deck’s LCD screen can now be reactivated by Bluetooth Wake, a feature that allows gamers to turn on their TV-connected Deck with a wireless controller from the couch. These improvements are expected to significantly enhance the overall user experience.
Upgrades for Linux Desktop Modes
The update also includes various improvements for Linux desktop modes, which are particularly useful for a Steam machine connected to a TV or monitor. These improvements include desktop HDR, VRR display support, per-screen scaling, improved windowing behavior for games running in Proton, and an upgrade to KDE Plasma 6.4.3, among others. These modifications are designed to provide a smoother and more interactive gaming experience.
Surround Sound Capability
For Steam Machine or Steam Handheld users who have plugged their device into a home entertainment system, the update includes a feature that detects the number of audio channels via HDMI to enable surround sound. This automatic implementation is designed to enhance the auditory gaming experience.
Non-Deck Changes and Improved Video Memory Management
In an unexpected move, Valve has also made extensive changes to the “Non-Deck” section. A long press of the power button can now be used to shut down, restart, or enter desktop mode on a wide range of devices. Other changes include the ability to change CPU power modes on the Xbox Ally, and improvements to the Night Mode and Screen Color settings on AMD Z2 Extreme handhelds. The update also brings significantly improved video memory management with discrete GPU platforms. This update also allows for limiting battery charge time in any of the Lenovo Legion Go handhelds (in desktop mode), and fixes “washed out colors for Zotac and OneXPlayer handhelds with OLED”.
There are numerous other features included in this update, so for a comprehensive view of all the changes and improvements, you can check out the full changelog here.
