SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview: New Handheld Support & Desktop Experience

Key Takeaways

1. SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview, called “Pi Day,” introduces support for third-party gaming handhelds beyond the Steam Deck.
2. The update upgrades the Arc Linux base and moves the Linux Kernel to version 6.11 for improved performance.
3. Transition from Plasma 5.7 to 6.2.5 aims to enhance the desktop experience for Linux users.
4. The update addresses bugs, updates the Mesa graphics driver, and improves controller/input functionality.
5. A general-purpose version of SteamOS may be released soon, potentially competing with Windows.

The SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview is officially here, marking a significant update from Valve. Known as “Pi Day,” this update introduces several improvements, with one of the most notable being the support for gaming handhelds that are not Steam Deck.

Uncertain Support for Handhelds

However, it remains unclear which third-party handheld gaming devices will receive full support with this SteamOS Preview update. Although this is just the initial step, Valve has kept its word about broadening support. Of course, there are more exciting features in the update. The 3.7.0 Preview also includes new functionalities, numerous enhancements, and various updates to improve user experience.

Key Upgrades in the Update

As per the release notes, the SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview upgrades the Arc Linux base and moves the Linux Kernel to version 6.11. These changes promise to offer better software accessibility and performance improvements. Additionally, the update shifts from Plasma 5.7 to 6.2.5, which aims to provide a more desktop-like experience for Linux users.

Moreover, the SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview addresses multiple known bugs, updates the Mesa graphics driver, and resolves controller and input problems. The new version also enhances the transition between game and desktop modes, boosts surround sound support, and increases compatibility with various displays.

Looking Ahead

While the SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview broadens the OS’s compatibility with third-party gaming handhelds like the 512 GB Legion Go currently priced at $602 on Amazon, we are still waiting for Valve to unveil a general-purpose version of the OS. However, reports suggest that this could happen soon, making it interesting to see how it will stack up against Windows when that time comes.

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