Valve’s SteamOS 3.5 Update Brings Exciting Improvements to Steam Deck
Valve has recently announced the release of its highly anticipated SteamOS 3.5 update, which introduces an array of exciting features and improvements to the popular Steam Deck. The update, detailed in a blog post on the Steam website, brings significant enhancements to display settings and overall performance.
One of the key new features is the support for variable refresh rates (VRR) and high dynamic range (HDR) when using the Steam Deck with an external display that is compatible. This means that gamers can now enjoy smoother gameplay with reduced screen tearing and enhanced visual quality on supported displays.
To further enhance the visual experience, Valve has made a change to the Steam Deck’s default color rendering, aiming to emulate the sRGB color gamut. This adjustment results in a slightly warmer and more vibrant color appearance. However, Valve understands that personal preferences may vary, so they have also introduced settings that allow users to customize the display’s color vibrancy and temperature according to their liking.
Aside from the display-related enhancements, the SteamOS 3.5 update also includes several other noteworthy improvements. Valve has updated the graphics drivers, bringing with it numerous performance and functionality enhancements. While not specifically verified for the Steam Deck, Starfield, Bethesda’s acclaimed space RPG, reportedly performs better after the update.
Valve has also addressed the need for improved sleep resume speed, making slight optimizations to ensure a smoother transition when waking the Steam Deck from sleep mode. These small improvements may seem insignificant, but they can make a notable difference in overall user experience and convenience.
For Linux desktop mode users of the Steam Deck, the update introduces an updated version of the underlying Arch Linux, complete with a revamped Plasma desktop interface. This update includes an updated Discover app store, new widgets, and a window tiling system for improved multitasking and productivity.
Furthermore, the Steam Deck’s BIOS now features voltage offset settings, providing enthusiasts with greater control over the device’s power management. This allows for undervolting or overclocking the Steam Deck, giving gamers more flexibility to optimize performance according to their preferences.
If you’re eager to experience the new features and improvements first-hand, you can opt to try the SteamOS 3.5 preview. Simply navigate to “Settings” > “System” > “System Update Channel” > “Preview” to access the latest update. However, do keep in mind that preview versions may sometimes exhibit instability, so switching back to the Stable channel is always an option for a more reliable gaming experience.
Valve’s SteamOS 3.5 update showcases the company’s commitment to continually enhancing the Steam Deck’s performance and capabilities. With improvements to display settings, graphics drivers, sleep resume speed, and the underlying Linux system, the update promises to elevate the overall gaming experience for Steam Deck users. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a dedicated enthusiast, these enhancements are bound to deliver a more immersive and enjoyable gaming experience.
