Display Enhancements
The latest update of SteamOS, version 3.5.5, brings several exciting enhancements for Steam Deck users. One of the notable improvements is the adjustment of the default color rendering for the Steam Deck LCD. This update emulates the sRGB color gamut, resulting in a slightly warmer and more vibrant color appearance, enhancing the overall visual experience. Users now have the option to fine-tune display colors with the new "Settings -> Adjust Display Colors" feature, allowing customization of Color Vibrancy and Color Temperature.
For those who crave high dynamic range visuals, Steam Deck now supports HDR for external displays. The update also introduces additional HDR Analysis in the Advanced Display settings. Additionally, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) is now available, as long as your USB-C adapter supports it.
General Upgrades
Steam Deck OLED now receives official support with the SteamOS 3.5.5 update. The update also addresses a CPU performance issue for specific workloads, ensuring a smoother gaming experience. Another improvement is the auto-mount feature for external storage devices, streamlining the user experience.
Graphics drivers have been updated, bringing performance boosts and fixes for specific games like Starfield. Bluetooth connection stability has also been improved, along with faster sleep resume speeds. Moreover, the Linux hid-steam driver now allows users to switch between controller and mouse/keyboard bindings by long-pressing Options, adding a convenient touch to the gaming experience.
Firmware Enhancements
Firmware 118 introduces voltage offset settings, providing users with more control over their Steam Deck's performance. Additionally, the Steam Deck Dock Firmware 121 now supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and improves reliability when changing display modes via on-screen menus.
Updated Arch Linux Base
In addition to these device-specific upgrades, SteamOS 3.5.5 incorporates an updated Arch Linux base. This update brings in newer performance, security, and stability fixes for the underlying packages supporting SteamOS. Some highlights of this update include a new window tiling system and improved Discover (app store/software manager) with enhanced search functionality.
