Valve has unveiled the SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview, marking a significant step towards expanding support for non-Steam Deck handheld devices. While this release is currently exclusive to the Steam Deck, it signals the impending arrival of a Beta version that will cater to a broader range of handhelds. Users eager to experience the latest features must adjust their Steam Deck update settings to the Preview channel, accessible via Settings > System > System Update Channel.
Notable Enhancements in SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview
This Preview version brings with it a delightful surprise: Bluetooth controllers can now wake the LCD model of the Steam Deck, a feature previously reserved for OLED models. Below is a comprehensive overview of the changes introduced in this update:
General
- Updated to a newer Arch Linux base
- Updated the Linux kernel to version 6.11
- Updated the Mesa graphics driver base
- Desktop mode now includes Plasma 6.2.5
- Initial support for non-Steam Deck handhelds
Controllers and Input
- Added support for the Proteus Byowave controller
- Resolved an issue affecting the Switch Pro Controller gyros during initial connection
- Fixed a problem with stuck or hanging controller inputs upon exiting Steam
Bluetooth
- Addressed an issue where Bluetooth devices could wake the Steam Deck from suspend, even with Bluetooth disabled in Desktop mode
- Enabled HFP/HSP profiles for integrated microphone use with headsets and earbuds (currently available only in Desktop mode)
- Introduced a battery level display for supported Bluetooth devices
- Included a bug fix for AirPods when using the AAC codec
- Bluetooth controllers can now wake LCD units from sleep, a feature previously limited to OLED models (note: Bluetooth LE-based controllers are not compatible with this feature on LCD models)
Steam Deck Dock
- Improved compatibility for specific displays, including TCL FireTV models and Dell VRR-capable monitors
Graphics and Performance
- Enabled AMD P-State CPU frequency control
- Fixed a performance regression affecting the game No Rest for the Wicked
Desktop
- Updated to Plasma 6.2.5 (previously 5.27.10) – discover the major changes in Plasma 6
- Surround sound functionality is now fully operational (enabling this setting is currently limited to Desktop mode)
- KDE Filelight is now pre-installed for disk usage visualization and low disk space alerts
- Enhanced speed and reliability when switching between desktop and game modes, addressing common hang issues
- Added support for ‘gocryptfs’ in the desktop session, facilitating the use of the Plasma Vaults feature
Miscellaneous
- Fixed instances where “filter-chain” or other virtual sound devices would incorrectly appear in the UI
- Resolved issues that could lead to failed system updates due to corrupted or malformed configuration files
- Improved the System Report functionality for enhanced support and troubleshooting
- Addressed compatibility issues with certain DNS servers causing slow domain lookups
- Enhanced system responsiveness in out-of-memory crash scenarios
- Enabled IPv6 Privacy Extensions by default
Known Issues
- Creative Zen Air Pro earbuds may display an unexpected all-zeros entry during pairing
- Super NES controllers might erroneously appear as connected when they are not
- DualShock 3 controllers are currently unable to be paired or utilized
Developer Updates
- Updated to a 6.11 based kernel
- Added debuginfod URLs for SteamOS
- Included systemd .socket units in the default list of preserved /etc files across updates
- When operating in a VM, the system will now default to the desktop session
- Standardized swap file setup now uses ‘mkswap’ functionality instead of a custom script
- The steamos-readonly command now provides a warning regarding potential inaccuracies when sysexts are loaded
- Fixed a scenario that could lead to duplicate boot entries for devices set up for dual-boot
- The pacman cache is now cleaned post SteamOS updates to resolve stale cache errors when switching branches
As Valve continues to enhance the Steam Deck experience, users can look forward to more updates that promise to broaden the horizons of handheld gaming.
