SteamOS
News, coverage and analysis tracking SteamOS across the outlets.
Latest coverage
"We're trying to make it easier": Valve confirm the Steam Frame is just the start of plans to get Steam games working on compatibility-challenged ARM PCs
Valve is developing new compatibility technology, FEX, an x86-to-ARM emulator, to enable Steam games to run on ARM-based PCs and laptops. This initiative, inspired by the Steam Frame VR headset, aims to make a wider range of devices capable of running the full Steam library, addressing the current limitations of ARM architecture for gaming.
Valve says it is 'definitely' investigating an Arm-based gaming future on top of its work on FEX
Valve is investigating the potential for an Arm-based gaming future, in addition to its work on the FEX translation layer. Engineers confirmed that Arm is definitely under consideration for future Steam Machine hardware, alongside an Arm-specific version of SteamOS and a VR headset. This exploration aims to provide users with more affordable and powerful gaming options.
I can't afford $1,049 for a Steam Machine, but Valve has already graced your PC with the ability to be a high-spec…
The article discusses alternatives to Valve's expensive Steam Machine, highlighting the Steam Link feature which allows users to stream games from a high-spec PC to lower-spec devices. It suggests that many existing gadgets, including handhelds like the Anbernic RG ARC-D and even smartphones, can act as a "faux Steam Machine" for a fraction of the cost, provided a stable internet connection is available.
New Windows 11 update will actually make your PC faster
A new Windows 11 update, KB5089573, is designed to improve PC performance by optimizing application launches and core system experiences. Microsoft is implementing 'Low Latency Profiles' to boost CPU frequency during app opens, potentially making them up to 40% faster. The update also includes reliability improvements and aims to bring Windows 11 performance closer to that of SteamOS.
If you're wondering why Microsoft's Xbox mode is still missing after installing the latest Windows 11 update,…
Microsoft's new Xbox mode for Windows 11 is not yet available to all users due to a phased rollout and regional restrictions. The feature, which provides a console-like UI, is being enabled server-side via Controlled Feature Rollout to monitor for bugs. Users can check their settings to see if the 'Full Screen Experience' is active, offering navigation similar to the ASUS ROG Ally X.
Bazzite Linux 44 lands for desktop gamers and it's a big release
Bazzite Linux 44 has been released for desktop gamers, coinciding with Fedora 44. While desktop users can update now, handheld users will have to wait for testing builds to become available soon. This major release includes KDE Plasma 6.6, GNOME 50, updated kernels and graphics drivers, and improved security features.
Playnix launch their own Steam Machine-like Linux gaming console
Playnix has launched a Linux-based gaming console, similar in concept to Valve's Steam Machine. The console features a custom Arch Linux distribution that boots into Steam Big Picture mode, offering a SteamOS-like experience. It boasts a compact form factor and upgradable PC components, with pricing starting at €1,139 for the second batch.
