SteamOS Update Adds Support for Slew of Gaming Handhelds and VRR on HDMI

Valve’s SteamOS 3.8.6 Beta update has officially been announced, and although it brings the usual list of bug fixes and stability updates, the new update also adds support for a host of new hardware and some software features. For one, it looks as though AMD’s work to get HDMI 2.1 functional on Linux is progressing, with SteamOS 3.8.6 bringing support for VRR over HDMI on devices with native HDMI output. The HDMI VRR support is noted as preliminary, so it may still be an imperfect experience, but it seems as though the work is coming along. VRR frame pacing has also been improved, and TCL TVs will now more reliably connect to the handheld via the Steam Deck Dock.

SteamOS 3.8.6 also adds controller support for several new gaming handhelds—specifically, the MSI Claw A1M, 7 AI+ A2VM, 8 AI+ A2VM, A8 BZ2EM, and the OneXPlayer Apex and X1 series—and it improves support for controllers using AccelGyro3D devices, with specific mention of the original Lenovo Legion Go and MSI Claw A1M. The graphics driver has also been updated with improved stability, and the update added graphics features necessary for some games, including Crimson Desert. The update also improves audio over HDMI, and there are several audio bug fixes and stability improvements. Last, but not least, SteamOS will also yet again allow Bluetooth Wake for the Steam Deck LCD, and it enables wake from sleep for connected Steam Controllers.