Two of Valve’sSteam Deckdesigners enlightened gamers on some of the updates planned for the handheld gaming computer. TheSteam Decklaunched early this year and has been one of the hottest-selling gadgets ever since.
Since its release this past February, Valve has committed to optimizing theSteam Deck by releasing consistent updatesfor the device. Many of these improvements were based on user feedback and also ensuring that popular games such asElden Ringran properly on the portable PC. These range from updates recommended for everybody, as well as updates to let users try experimental features still in development.
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In an interview withThe Verge, Steam Deck designers Lawrence Yang and Pierre-Loup Griffais spoke on what future support for the Steam Deck will include. In terms of software updates outside of bug fixes, the prioritized features include more audio options, improved cloud sync, and letting users share their power profiles. As for hardware fixes, future units will include a more easily removable battery to streamline repairs. The battery in the Steam Deck is purposely designed to stay restrained to keep it from jostling around and turning the device into what Yang describes as a “Steam Deck maraca.” A similar approach to ease ofSteam Deck repairsis applied to the cooling fans, some of which were known to produce a whining sound.
When it comes to future Steam Deck models, improved screens and battery life remain the priority. Griffais remarked that there is not yet a big drive to make major performance improvements to the Steam Deck as there is “a lot of value” in having a uniform power level across all Steam Decks. When it comes to pursuing gaming avenues opened by the Steam Deck, Yang expressed excitement at the idea of making the Deck’s SteamOS 3 available to other manufacturers, letting them expand on what Valve has made. Although the Steam Deck remains Valve’s hardware priority, Yang affirms that they are interested in creating anew iteration of the Steam Controller, potentially with a third-party company.
Since it was first revealed, the influence that the Nintendo Switch had on the Steam Deck has been fairly obvious, but Valve has set itself apart by prolifically updating the Steam Deck and continuing to develop hardware improvements for the device. That coupled with Valve’s user-friendly approach to hardware has helped make the Steam Deck one of the most convenient and approachable gaming systems on the market. While it will be some time beforeSteam Deck salesreach the levels of the Nintendo Switch, it is clear that Valve will not stop refining the Steam Deck experience anytime soon.
