Valve delivers major updates in the SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview: Pi Day, which now includes an upgraded Linux Kernel, KDE Plasma, Mesa Graphics Driver, and more.
SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview Brings Linux Kernel 6.11, Newer Arch Linux Base, Plasma 6.2.5, and Many Updates for Input and Connectivity
The SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview is out and is one of the major updates by Valve for the Steam Deck. The Preview is codenamed "Pi Day" and offers several new features, improvements, and updates that take the user experience to a whole new level, offering a desktop-like experience on the console, thanks to the updated KDE Plasma.
Valve has listed all the updates in the release notes, showing what has changed for the Steam Deck users. The general updates are major, including the updated Arc Linux base for better access to software and security updates, while the Linux Kernel is also upgraded to 6.11, bringing enhancements in performance, security, and hardware compatibility.
One of the most notable upgrades is going from Plasma 5.7 to Plasma 6.2.5, which will now allow Deck users to switch to a feature-rich desktop interface. Plasma 6 was originally launched last year in Feb, built on Qt 6, KDE Frameworks 6, and KDE Gear 24.02, offering tons of new features for Linux-based OS. This will now allow Deck users to use a handheld similar to desktop devices.
General Updates
- Updated to a newer Arch Linux base
- Updated the Linux kernel to 6.11
- Updated the Mesa graphics driver base
- Desktop mode now ships with Plasma 6.2.5
- Beginnings of support for non-Steam Deck handhelds
That said, Valve's promise of launching its SteamOS on other handhelds has been delivered. While it's just the start, Valve will be enhancing the SteamOS to ensure better compatibility with non-Steam Deck handhelds. At the moment, the only non-Valve handheld to support SteamOS is the Legion Go S, but more will come out in the near future.
The SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview also brings many major and minor updates to areas such as Controllers & Input, Bluetooth, Graphics & Performance, and fixes many bugs. The preview brings better surround sound support for the desktop mode, offers a quicker transition between the desktop and game modes, and also fixes bugs like freezes in desktop mode.
Another notable update is the improved compatibility with certain displays and the activation of AMD P-State CPU frequency control for better efficiency on the handheld. There are tons of more such updates which you can read at Steampowered. However, we are waiting for Valve to deliver the SteamOS officially for desktop PCs, which is rumored to be in the works and will offer an intuitive interface for gamers.
*Note: Many of the listed features are still being tested and can be opted by going to Settings > System > System Update Channel.
About the author: Sarfraz Khan is a hardware reporter with a focus on PC components and the builder community. With years of experience writing about PC hardware and laptops, his work has been featured on several reputable technology publications. Sarfraz's hands-on experience is demonstrated through his first-person accounts of using and comparing different hardware configurations, providing practical and relatable insights for everyday users. His technical analysis is respected by peers in the enthusiast community and has been cited by specialized hardware sites such as Germany's Igor's Lab.
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