SteamOS can now be used on devices that are not from Valve

Valve recently announced during CES in Las Vegas its intention to expand SteamOS beyond the Steam Deck, starting with the Lenovo Legion Go S handheld console. Version 3.7.0 of SteamOS marks a significant milestone, as it initiates support for handheld devices that are not Steam Deck, although not all current machines are eligible for this update.

A huge breakthrough for Valve’s operating system

This development is part of Valve’s strategy to compete in the growing market of portable consoles, where industry giants like Sony, Nintendo, and Microsoft also feature. Gabe Newell’s company has acknowledged that other manufacturers have shown a clear interest in this hardware segment, leading to the need to expand its ecosystem. In this regard, Lenovo and Asus have emerged as the main collaborators in the evolution of these devices, being the two brands that have most promoted the handheld PCs category in the last two years.

Although the full implementation of support for non-Steam Deck devices is expected in May, coinciding with the launch of the Lenovo Legion Go S, the groundwork has already begun with the recent SteamOS update. This new version suggests that compatibility adjustments have been made for various models, although users of devices like the Asus ROG Ally will not be able to use this version to install the operating system yet. However, Valve has already started to integrate support for functionalities of these devices, as previously mentioned with the extra buttons of the ROG Ally.

In addition, until this support is finalized, players have an alternative in Bazzite, a solution that offers a similar experience to the Steam Deck without the need for Windows 11. With this expansion, Valve aims not only to diversify its hardware but also to emulate the success of the Steam Deck in the competitive world of portable consoles. And perhaps, reach desktop computers.

Nintendo Switch Online DOWNLOAD