Valve has up to date its model pointers for the primary time since 2017, with a really large trace that future third-party handhelds will have the ability to run SteamOS, the identical system utilized by the Steam Deck. Because the Steam proprietor strikes additional into gaming {hardware} and software program, it seems that it’s trying to unfold its wings additional.
Since 2019, Valve has been critical about its {hardware} ambitions. In 2021, it introduced the Steam Deck, which proved to be one of the best gaming handheld. Frequent latest updates since then have proven that the corporate doesn’t plan to decelerate any time quickly.
The adjustments are documented in a PDF file about Valve’s branding pointers, which incorporates direct references to Valve’s custom-built Linux distribution, SteamOS, working on different {hardware}. It describes the “Powered by SteamOS” badge as being for “{hardware} working the SteamOS working system, carried out in shut collaboration with Valve.”
As with different {hardware} producers that may ship Home windows or Android, Valve seemingly needs to have the identical kind of branding as its fellow working system makers.
Main adjustments akin to this one additionally point out that SteamOS is likely to be virtually able to ship on different {hardware}. Whereas the Linux distro will be put in on most fashionable PCs with out the necessity for a Steam Deck, it nonetheless isn’t prepared for the large time.
Current updates have made it extra appropriate with competing handhelds, although, such because the Asus ROG Ally. Different updates to Proton, Valve’s Linux translation layer to get Home windows apps working, now have higher assist for Nvidia graphics playing cards as nicely.
The opposite main tidbit is that Valve now has guidelines surrounding its branding on packaged containers. A pretend handheld field is proven, the place Valve discusses the “Steam Included” badge. Valve states it needs the brand to be “much less distinguished” than the product’s personal branding, as plainly it is usually planning to permit producers to ship handhelds with Steam onboard.
Valve outlines comparable guidelines for controllers, to which it should now allocate a “Steam Appropriate” badge for any controller assembly the necessities. For instance, Hori’s devoted Steam controller would in all probability get this label if refreshed.
Valve additionally shared guidelines for Steam Hyperlink and VR compatibility, giving a greater understanding for customers trying to get a VR headset to play the greatest VR video games.
Whereas Valve and producers sort out the hand held market, SteamOS and its options akin to Bazzite are nice on lower-end machines. The most effective gaming mini PC designs can get a large jolt of power when the bags of Home windows leaves them, and we will get behind a future that includes a extra highly effective Steam Deck sitting underneath your TV.
