SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview adds support for more gaming handhelds, delivers desktop-like experience

The SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview is now official, and it's one of the major updates that Valve has pushed so far. Codenamed "Pi Day," this update brings a handful of changes to the table, and among all of them, one of the biggest highlights is support for non-Steam Deck gaming handhelds.

However, it's not clear which third-party gaming handhelds will gain proper support with this SteamOS Preview update, and even though this is just the beginning, Valve has delivered its promise of expanded support. Of course, this isn't the only highlight of the update. The 3.7.0 Preview also brings new features, many improvements, and updates to the user experience.

As described in the release notes, the SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview updates the Arc Linux base, and the Linux Kernel has been upgraded to 6.11. These two promise better software accessibility and performance enhancements. Another notable upgrade is the jump to Plasma 6.2.5 from 5.7, which brings a Linux desktop-like experience.

Besides these changes, the SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview fixes many known bugs, updates the Mesa graphics driver base, and fixes controller and input issues. The new Preview also offers a smoother transition between game and desktop modes, improved surround sound support, and expanded display compatibility.

Now, while the SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview expands the OS's compatibility with third-party gaming handhelds (512 GB Legion Go curr. $602 on Amazon), we are yet to see Valve release a general-purpose version of the OS. But per reports, that might happen sooner than later, and when that happens, it will be interesting to see how well it competes against Windows.