In a September beta, there were some big updates like support for VRR and HDR external displays on the Valve Steam Deck. This beta also introduced the ability to customize the screen’s color, undervolt the processor with new firmware, and an update to the graphics driver that improved performance for Starfield. However, there was still room for improvement as Starfield still looked muddy in cities. Additionally, the official $79 Steam Deck Dock now has the new ability to support VRR external monitors itself, which was an unexpected addition to the list of updates.
One of the most exciting updates for me is the ability to customize the MangoHud performance overlay. This feature allows users to choose what information is displayed on the overlay. For example, a minimal version that shows only FPS, wattage, and remaining battery life could be designed. This customization option gives users more control over how they monitor their system’s performance.
Another notable update in the beta is the “slightly improved sleep resume speed” and the “improved Bluetooth connection stability, especially with multiple controllers.” These updates address some of the connectivity and performance issues that users may have been experiencing. Furthermore, there have been numerous changes to the KDE Plasma interface, enhancing the overall look and functionality of the Linux desktop mode on the Steam Deck.
The ability to tweak the screen’s color and undervolt the processor with new firmware are essential for users who seek to optimize the performance and battery life of their Steam Deck. These updates give users more control over their device’s settings and performance, allowing for a more personalized experience.
Related Post
The update also included a graphics driver update that significantly improved the performance for Starfield. However, despite the improvement, there were still some visual issues in the game, particularly in cities where the graphics appeared muddy. This indicates that there is still room for further optimization and improvements in future updates.
The addition of VRR support for external monitors on the Steam Deck Dock is a significant update, providing users with more flexibility in their display setup. Previously, the Steam Deck Dock page had mentioned that “FreeSync support is in-progress, update is forthcoming,” making this unexpected addition a welcome surprise for users who utilize external monitors with their Steam Deck.
With the updates to the KDE Plasma interface, users can expect an enhanced and more user-friendly Linux desktop mode experience on the Steam Deck. These changes not only improve the aesthetics of the interface but also optimize the functionality, making it easier for users to navigate and customize their desktop environment.
Overall, the beta update for the Valve Steam Deck introduced significant improvements and new features that enhance the device’s performance, connectivity, and user experience. With updates to the graphics driver, customization options, and improvements to the KDE Plasma interface, the Steam Deck continues to evolve and improve, catering to the needs and preferences of its users.
