SteamOS 3.7 expands Valve’s gaming OS to additional handhelds and general AMD PCs

The long-awaited moment has finally come, as Valve's official version of SteamOS is now accessible on handheld devices beyond just the Steam Deck. 

This isn't a broad release, which may disappoint some (still no SteamOS desktop PC for me), but it marks the first comprehensive official support for additional handhelds. Initially, the Lenovo Legion Go S is the first handheld partner to be equipped with SteamOS and is set to launch very soon. This device boasts full support, while other handhelds, such as the Legion Go and ROG Ally, have "expanded support." 

Specifically mentioning the Legion Go and ROG Ally, a simple requirement exists for trying SteamOS on another handheld: it must be powered by AMD CPU and graphics hardware and equipped with an NVMe SSD designed for portable devices. Essentially, a PCIe 4.0 SSD is a must. Additionally, you'll need to turn off Secure Boot on your PC. This feature is typically enabled by default as part of the installation requirements for Windows 11, so check your manufacturer’s documentation to learn how to disable it.

Beyond supporting more hardware, the new SteamOS release introduces several significant updates, including enhancements to the Arch Linux base, Linux kernel, Mesa graphics driver, and the Plasma desktop environment. 

Now, there is support for frame limiting on displays that feature variable refresh rates, options for setting battery charge limits, and compatibility with AMD P-state CPU frequency controls. Numerous bug fixes have also been implemented. This expands the potential for devices beyond just the two named, as others from manufacturers like AYANEO that utilize AMD hardware may also be compatible. 

The non-exclusive nature of SteamOS means more avenues for experiencing the best of PC gaming on handheld devices, regardless of the specific device in use. For those wanting high-end portable gaming without waiting, the ROG Ally X is currently available. With better battery life, improved ergonomics, and performance that gamers are already enjoying, it could meet all your gaming needs right now. As always, for the latest news on hardware launches and industry developments, be sure to follow our dedicated hardware coverage.