Key Highlights:
- SteamOS 3.6.0 Preview update for the Steam Deck brings faster GPU crash recovery, improved Bluetooth, and overclocking controls for the LCD model.
- It features Mesa 24.1 graphics driver for enhanced performance, better display uniformity, and HDMI CEC support for TV remote control.
- Users can access modding tools, SSH/SSHD config fragments, and opt into the Preview channel to test new features.
Valve has released a significant update for the Steam Deck, SteamOS 3.6.0 Preview, packed with new features and improvements that promise to enhance the overall gaming experience on the popular handheld device.
Available through the Steam Deck’s Preview channel, this update brings a host of exciting changes that cater to both casual gamers and power users alike. The official X/Twitter account shared a post that detailed the announcement and pointed users in the direction of the patch notes which you can also view below:
SteamOS 3.6.0 Preview Patch Notes for Steam Deck
| Section | Description |
|---|---|
| General | |
| System Base & Security | Updated to newer Arch Linux base, improved WPA3 support, Linux Kernel 6.5 |
| Bluetooth | Improved pairing with AirPods, faster connection speeds, stability in high memory usage, Bluetooth wake-from-sleep options |
| Performance & Stability | Faster OS updates, improved microSD card reliability, fixed cursor offset, addressed temporary file buildup (Flatpak) |
| Audio | Enabled Bluetooth A2DP and BAP profiles (improved sound quality for some devices) |
| Performance Overlay | Fixed spurious activation |
| Boot & Shutdown | Fixed thin grey line on boot, improved power LED behavior |
| Display | |
| Improvements | Improved display uniformity, color balance (reduced green tint), gamma (reduced yellow tint) |
| Graphics and Performance | |
| Graphics Driver | Updated to Mesa 24.1 (improves performance and graphics accuracy) |
| UI Responsiveness | Improved responsiveness of the Steam UI |
| Desktop Mode | |
| Desktop Environment | Updated to KDE Plasma 5.27.10 |
| File Browser | Enabled video thumbnail previews |
| MicroSD Card Auto-Mount | Fixed issue causing auto-mount failure after desktop use |
| Deck Dock | |
| HDMI CEC Features | Added support for TV remote input, wake up, and input switching |
| Dock Firmware | Updated firmware for compatibility with high-refresh-rate VRR displays |
| BIOS | |
| Overclocking | Added overclocking controls for Steam Deck LCD |
| Boot Device | Fixed setting SD card as default boot device |
| Power LED | Adjusted slow charging threshold, fixed spurious blinking |
| Development and Modding | |
| /etc File Management | Improved migration process to prevent unexpected data loss, added support for custom configuration fragments |
| Backup & Restore | Added /etc/previous folder for previous update modifications, retains up to 5 snapshots in /var/lib/steamos-atomupd/etc_backup/ |
| SSH Configuration | Added support for SSH configuration fragments |
| Known Issues | Frequent session switching may cause sound driver crashes requiring a reboot |
Performance Boosts and Overclocking
One of the most notable additions is the overclocking controls for the Steam Deck LCD model, accessible through the BIOS settings.
This feature, previously available only on the Steam Deck OLED, allows users to push their devices to their limits, potentially unlocking higher performance levels.
However, it’s important to note that overclocking should be approached with caution, as it may impact system stability and power consumption.
Graphics and Display Enhancements
The update also includes the latest Mesa 24.1 graphics driver, promising numerous performance and correctness improvements.
This driver update, coupled with the improved responsiveness of the Steam UI, should result in a smoother and more responsive gaming experience.
Display enhancements are another highlight of SteamOS 3.6.0 Preview. Users can expect improved display uniformity, colour balance, and gamma correction, ensuring a more visually pleasing and accurate gaming experience, especially in demanding titles.
Connectivity and Compatibility Improvements
Bluetooth connectivity has been a focus area for this update, with improved pairing experiences for Apple AirPods and support for A2DP and BAP profiles.
Additionally, it also addresses connectivity failures with WPA3 security-enabled access points and enhances the connection speed of certain Bluetooth devices.
Desktop Mode and Dock Enhancements
For those who prefer to use their Steam Deck in Desktop mode, the update brings an upgraded KDE Plasma 5.27.10 environment, complete with thumbnail previews for videos in the file browser.
Furthermore, the Deck Dock now supports HDMI CEC features, enabling TV remote input, wake-up, and input switching for an enhanced living room gaming experience.
Modding and Development SteamOS 3.6.0 Preview also caters to modders and developers, introducing a modified file migration system for /etc files, ensuring a smoother transition between OS versions.
Moreover, support for SSH/SSHD config fragments has been added, providing greater flexibility for customisation.
While the update promises numerous improvements, Valve has acknowledged a known issue where frequent session switches may cause the sound driver to crash, necessitating a system reboot.
Users interested in testing the new features and enhancements can opt into the Preview channel through the Steam Deck’s Settings > System > System Update Channel.
Valve continues to refine and enhance the Steam Deck handheld gaming device. With rumours of a newer version on the way, it’s good to see they haven’t abandoned the original just yet.