Valve, the popular gaming platform, has released its latest SteamOS update, version 3.5, which brings a host of new features and performance improvements to the Steam Deck. This update introduces significant display settings enhancements, as well as support for variable refresh rates (VRR) and HDR when used with compatible hardware.
In the blog post on the Steam website, Valve explains that SteamOS 3.5 now enables HDR if you have a compatible display, and VRR can be enabled with a compatible USB-C adapter. Additionally, Valve has made changes to the default color rendering of the Steam Deck, adopting the “emulate the sRGB color gamut” setting. This adjustment aims to enhance color appearance, creating a slightly warmer and more vibrant visual experience. Valve has taken user preference into consideration and added options to adjust color vibrancy and color temperature in the display settings, allowing users to customize their gaming experience according to their personal preferences.
Aside from the display settings enhancements, the SteamOS 3.5 update also brings some other notable improvements. Valve states that the graphics drivers have been updated, resulting in numerous performance and functionality enhancements. Interestingly, the update claims to offer improved performance specifically for “Starfield,” though it’s important to note that the game isn’t officially verified for the Steam Deck. However, this hasn’t stopped users from experimenting with playing the game on the handheld gaming PC, as reported on Reddit.
Moreover, Valve promises a slightly improved sleep resume speed with this update. For gamers, every second counts, so any speed improvements are welcomed by the community.
To access the SteamOS 3.5 preview, users can navigate to Settings > System > System Update Channel > Preview. However, it’s worth noting that previews may sometimes be unstable due to ongoing development. If users encounter any issues or prefer a more stable experience, they can easily switch back to the Stable channel.
Valve’s commitment to enhancing the Steam Deck’s performance and user experience is evident in the SteamOS 3.5 update. By introducing support for variable refresh rates and HDR, as well as providing display customization options, Valve aims to offer a more immersive and visually appealing gaming experience. The updated graphics drivers ensure optimal performance, and the improved sleep resume speed enhances convenience for gamers on the go.
As the Steam Deck gains popularity, Valve’s continuous updates and improvements demonstrate their dedication to deliver an exceptional gaming device. Users can look forward to future updates that will likely include additional features and enhancements to further optimize the Steam Deck’s performance and versatility in the gaming world.