Key Takeaways
1. SteamOS 3.7.5 Beta introduces enhanced support for various handheld devices, including better input support for Asus and Lenovo handhelds and the Byowave Proteus controller.
2. The update features improved AMD P-State CPU frequency control for better CPU management and efficiency, aiming to prevent performance drops during heavy CPU load.
3. The software stack has been upgraded to Linux kernel version 6.11 and Plasma 6.2.5, enhancing overall performance and prioritizing a Wayland-first experience.
4. Open-source AMD Mesa graphics drivers have been updated, adding VRR frame rate limiting and improving system security and compatibility.
5. Miscellaneous updates include Bluetooth wake for the Steam Deck, accurate surround sound support, faster transitions between desktop and gaming modes, and fixes for bugs related to shutdowns and switching modes.
Following the new evidence of a complete public release of Valve’s SteamOS, which is based on Linux, several enhancements have been made in later patches and updates. These updates frequently improve support for various hardware and controller setups. The latest SteamOS beta version, 3.7.5, named Ready Steady Go, has just been unveiled. This version brings improvements not only for third-party gaming handhelds but also substantial updates to the driver and software stack, along with essential quality-of-life enhancements.
Improvements for Handhelds
In the earlier SteamOS Preview update notes, it was noted that the SteamOS 3.7.5 Beta channel includes support for the trackpad of the Lenovo Legion Go S. This Beta update also highlights “better input support for Asus and Lenovo handhelds,” suggesting there are additional modifications for the Legion Go (current price: $599.99 at Best Buy) that will probably be explained more thoroughly when the main SteamOS update is released. Furthermore, the new update introduces support for the Byowave Proteus controller, which is a significant advancement for accessibility. It also resolves issues related to the Nintendo Switch Pro controller’s gyro inputs, which were not registering correctly upon initial connection.
Significant Software Changes
More importantly, SteamOS 3.7.5 Beta introduces support for AMD P-State CPU frequency control, transitioning from the previous Schedutil. This change should increase the number of AMD CPUs that SteamOS can manage accurately, enhance CPU efficiency, and help avoid performance drops during times of significant CPU load variation. Additionally, the underlying software stack has seen a major update, with the 3.5.7 patch upgrading the Arch Linux base to Linux kernel version 6.11, and now incorporating Plasma 6.2.5 for desktop mode. This update shifts from KDE 5.27.10 to the next major version, which updates the desktop to the latest Qt version and prioritizes a Wayland-first experience. Although SteamOS already utilized Wayland, the upgrade to Plasma 6 should enhance overall performance and efficiency.
Graphics Driver Updates
The open-source AMD Mesa graphics drivers have also received an update. In addition to adding VRR frame rate limiting for both internal and external displays, these updates primarily aim to keep the system secure and compatible while addressing minor bugs.
Other miscellaneous updates included in this release for SteamOS consist of Bluetooth wake from sleep for the LCD Steam Deck, accurate surround sound support, improved and faster transitions between desktop and gaming modes, and fixes for bugs such as slow shutdowns and hanging when switching to desktop mode.
Note: This update is aimed at the Steam Deck Beta and Preview channels and contains new features still undergoing testing. You can join this in Settings > System > System Update Channel.
Source:
Link
Leave a Reply