Operating Systems
Ongoing coverage on Operating Systems.
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Evening Tech Bits
New experimental builds of Windows 11 are introducing a cloud recovery option and the ability to move the taskbar. Separately, the article mentions that renting robots can make them more affordable for various applications, and that Samsung is projected to increase its profits in 2026.
Say what you will about Valve's $1,049 Steam Machine price tag, it's already getting SteamOS updates that…
Valve has released a SteamOS Beta update that significantly improves VRAM management, aiming to enhance performance and stability, particularly for systems with limited memory like the Steam Machine. This update, potentially incorporating a previously proposed Linux Kernel patch, should allow games to utilize their allocated VRAM more effectively, leading to a more stable experience even with demanding titles. The update also includes improvements to the Mesa graphics driver, benefiting ray tracing performance and overall functionality across various PC hardware and handhelds.
Is SteamOS ready to replace Windows? I installed it so you don’t have to
This article explores whether SteamOS is a viable replacement for Windows in PC gaming. Despite its potential for a console-like experience, the author found that SteamOS is still in beta for most systems and requires significant technical expertise to install and troubleshoot, particularly concerning driver support and networking issues. While it may appeal to DIY enthusiasts, it is not yet ready for the average gamer.
Windows 10 gets yet another year of life as Microsoft extends security updates into 2027
Microsoft has extended security updates for Windows 10 until October 2027, an additional year beyond the previously announced end of support in October 2025. This extension will be automatically applied to existing Extended Security Updates (ESU) subscriptions at no extra charge. The move acknowledges the significant number of users still on Windows 10, with Steam Hardware Survey data indicating 24% of PC gamers use it.
There's a surprising amount of major games you can't play on Valve's Steam Machine - here are eight of the biggest, and why
Valve's Steam Machine, despite its potential, faces significant limitations due to its SteamOS (a Linux variant) not supporting many popular games. This is primarily caused by anti-cheat software, which is incompatible with Linux, rendering titles like Destiny 2, Fortnite, Battlefield 6, Apex Legends, GTA Online, EA Sports FC 24, and modern Call of Duty games unplayable. While installing Windows is an option, it defeats the purpose of the console-like device.
Valve Releases SteamOS So Anyone Can Make A Steam Machine Now
Valve has released SteamOS 3.8, making its Linux-based operating system available for all hardware configurations, allowing users to convert their existing PCs into Steam Machines. While discrete AMD GPU support is available now, Nvidia support is still in development. The Steam Machine hardware is set to go on sale on June 30.
Evening Tech Bits
Valve is reportedly working on a general release of SteamOS and collaborating with Nvidia to ensure compatibility. Future updates may include dual-boot capabilities for the operating system.
The Steam Machine Has Already Lost Is Biggest Advantage Before Launch
The upcoming Steam Machine is set to launch without the significant advantage of its exclusive SteamOS, unlike the original Steam Deck. While the Steam Deck's success was largely due to its seamless, controller-friendly operating system in an uncontested market, the Steam Machine will face competition from more powerful handhelds and the ability for users to install SteamOS on any PC. This diminishes the Steam Machine's unique selling proposition, making its premium price point questionable despite Valve's broader goal of expanding Steam's reach.
Valve greenlights SteamOS installs on normal PCs with AMD GPUs, so you can go make your own Steam Machine if you…
Valve has officially greenlit the installation of SteamOS on standard PCs, provided they are equipped with AMD GPUs. This update, version 3.8, allows users to install the same operating system found on Steam Machines onto their own hardware, though support for other GPU manufacturers is pending. Previously, users could manually install older versions, but this marks Valve's official endorsement and aims to simplify the process for AMD users.
'Going to make myself stick with SteamOS instead of slithering back to Windows': gamers get ready to abandon Windows 11, as Valve focuses on boosting SteamOS on the desktop
Valve is actively improving SteamOS to enhance compatibility with desktop hardware and Nvidia GPUs, aiming to make it a viable alternative to Windows 11 for PC gamers. These efforts are prompting some users to consider switching from Windows 11, despite Nvidia support not being available this year. While SteamOS adoption is still niche, Valve's progress could eventually challenge Windows' dominance in PC gaming.
Valve is making it easier to build your own Steam Machine
Valve is making it easier for users to build their own Steam Machine by improving SteamOS compatibility with desktop PC hardware. Recent updates to SteamOS 3.8.10 enhance support for Intel and AMD platforms, with ongoing work on Nvidia driver integration. This allows users to install SteamOS on custom PC builds intended for TV-based gaming experiences similar to the Steam Deck or original Steam Machine.
Valve Is Making It Easier To Build Your Own Steam Machine
Valve is making it easier for users to build their own Steam Machines by improving SteamOS compatibility with desktop hardware, including recent Intel and AMD platforms. While Nvidia driver support is still in development, the updated SteamOS aims to provide an experience similar to a docked Steam Deck for PCs plugged into a TV.
You can now install SteamOS 3.8 on your standard gaming PC (with AMD GPU)
Valve has released SteamOS 3.8, allowing users to install the Linux-based gaming operating system on their own PC hardware, provided they have an AMD GPU. While custom installs are in beta, this update enables users to run the same code as the Steam Machine on their personal computers. Support for Nvidia GPUs is planned for the future, but current custom installations require disabling Secure Boot and may encounter issues with specific hardware components.
Custom Steam Machines will be possible with SteamOS 3.8 update
Valve's upcoming SteamOS 3.8 update will allow users to build their own custom Steam Machines, offering a more affordable alternative to the official hardware. Valve is also working on improved driver support for Intel, AMD, and potentially NVIDIA platforms. The experience is expected to be similar to a docked Steam Deck.
Steam Machine launches June 30, starting at $1,049
Valve announced that the Steam Machine will launch on June 30, with the 512GB model priced at $1,049 and the 2TB model with a Steam Controller costing $1,428. Reservation sign-ups are open until June 25 for Steam accounts in good standing, with users being chosen at random.
Steam Machine prices start at £879 / $1049, Valve confirm, as "randomised reservations" open for the SteamOS PC
Valve has confirmed pricing for the Steam Machine, with models starting at £879 / $1049, and has opened a randomized reservation system for orders. The company also clarified that Half-Life 3 will not be releasing with the Steam Machine. The article discusses the pricing in the context of current component shortages and the ordering system designed to mitigate reseller bots.
AI Yi-Yi!
A data analyst discovered that an 'AI stigma' on Steam can lead to a significant reduction in game reviews. Separately, the article touches upon upcoming practical AI features for iPhones in iOS 27, moving beyond basic assistants like Siri.
I spent an entire day with a fan-mod of North Korea's homegrown operating system, and I'm sorry to say…
An attempt to install and run a fan-modded version of North Korea's RedStar OS 3.5 on a PC proved largely unsuccessful. Despite improvements over the base 2011 version, the modified OS still suffered from installation issues, graphical glitches, and an inability to run modern applications or games, highlighting the significant gap between the OS and contemporary computing standards.
Valve releases SteamOS 3.8 — and it comes with the biggest hint yet that the Steam Machine is about to arrive
Valve has released SteamOS 3.8, which includes initial support for upcoming Steam Machine hardware, signaling a potential imminent launch. The update also brings general stability tweaks, improved compatibility with Intel and AMD platforms, and enhanced video memory management for discrete GPUs.
Latest official SteamOS update paves the way for Steam Machine with a bunch of new display features and faster patches
Valve has released a new SteamOS update, initially supporting the forthcoming Steam Machine and bringing several improvements for current Steam Deck users. The update enhances OS update speeds, adds support for certain USB racing wheels, and introduces initial support for external HDR and VRR displays. It also includes better scaling for Desktop Mode on TVs and performance tuning for the graphics driver.
