Valve continues to improve its gaming operating system with the release of Steam OS 3.7.0 Preview, a preliminary version that marks a milestone by including the first steps towards support for portable devices other than the Steam Deck. Although for now it remains a beta intended for the Steam Deck, this advance reinforces the company's intention to expand its ecosystem beyond its own hardware.
One of the most notable improvements in this update is the addition of the Linux kernel 6.11, which brings improvements in performance, security, and hardware compatibility. In addition, the Arch Linux base has been updated, allowing for more efficient access to the latest applications and security patches. On the other hand, desktop mode has received a significant boost thanks to the integration of KDE Plasma 6.2.5, offering a much more polished and functional experience for those who want to use the desktop interface on the Steam Deck or future compatible devices.
The first steps in expanding SteamOS
Valve had long promised that SteamOS would eventually come to devices other than the Steam Deck. This new release reaffirms that promise with the introduction of initial support for third-party portable devices. Although still in an early stage of development, the first external model confirmed to receive SteamOS support is the Lenovo Legion Go SAs announced at CES 2025, Lenovo will release two versions of its handheld console: one running Windows and one running Valve's operating system.
The impact of this decision goes beyond a simple announcement, as it opens the door to an alternative to Windows in the world of portable gaming devices. Until now, many manufacturers have opted for Microsoft's operating system due to its compatibility with most games, but SteamOS could position itself as an optimized option for the performance and battery life. In fact, for handheld console enthusiasts, this development is crucial, as the best portable consoles available may soon include models that support SteamOS.
Driver, sound, and performance improvements
In addition to the new kernel and Plasma update, SteamOS 3.7.0 includes a set of improvements aimed at optimizing the gaming experience and connectivity:
- Controllers and input: Controller support has been added Proteus Byowave, as well as correcting problems with the connection of the gyroscopes in the Switch Pro controllers.
- Bluetooth: Now Bluetooth controllers can wake up the LCD units, a feature previously available only on OLED models. Support for wireless headphones and a crash with AirPods when using the AAC codec has been fixed.
- Graphics and performance: The has been activated AMD P-State frequency control to improve the Energy Efficiency , as well as fixing a regression in game performance No Rest for the Wicked.
- Desktop mode: Now has support for surround sound and improvements to speed and stability when switching between game mode and desktop.
Display support and stability improvements
Another aspect that Valve has worked on is compatibility with external displays. Adjustments have been made to improve connectivity with certain TCL FireTV models and Dell monitors with support for variable refresh rate (VRR). In addition, they have been corrected various errors that affected system stability, including issues with virtual sound devices and failure to apply updates when certain configuration files were corrupted.
In terms of security, the following have been activated by default: IPv6 privacy extensions, guaranteeing a safer browsing For the users.
Towards a more accessible SteamOS
This release is still a preview of what's to come and makes it clear that Valve is committed to expanding the availability of its operating system outside of the Steam Deck. This could mark a shift in the landscape of portable gaming operating systems, offering an alternative that focuses on efficiency, optimization and ease of use for those who seek Opportunities in the handheld console market.
For those who want to try SteamOS 3.7.0. XNUMX Preview on their Steam Deck, you can activate the update from Settings > System > System Update ChannelPlease note that since this is a preliminary version, some bugs may still persist before its final release.
