Steam Deck OLED finally gets support for Windows, unlocking access to more games
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By default, Steam Deck handhelds come installed with Valve’s own custom Linux-based SteamOS. This is the case for both the LCD and OLED Steam Deck models, but the cheaper LCD has been carrying one benefit for a while now; it is compatible with Windows. This comes in handy if you want to play a game which fails to run on SteamOS, multiplayer titles with incompatible anti-cheat implementation such as Fortnite or recent Call of Duty titles come to mind.
However, this is no longer the case, as the OLED model now officially supports Windows, if you so choose to install it. Windows drivers are now available to download on the Steam website if you’re interested. Valve recently made a comment about preparing this just a couple of days ago, and it seems like getting SteamOS ready for other handhelds is up next.
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Steam Deck OLED
Steam Deck OLED gets Windows, SteamOS on other devices is next
The Windows resources that are now available include API, SD Card reader, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Audio drivers. Valve note that in order for Bluetooth to work properly, make sure you get the latest BIOS by updating SteamOS to 3.6.9. or later (the Beta version). You can follow this process if you want to install Windows on your Steam Deck OLED:
- Create a recovery drive with Windows on it and plug it into the Deck
- Boot Windows via the BIOS menu and install it
- Install the new Windows Drivers listed under ‘Steam Deck OLED’
We recently learned through The Verge that Valve were “preparing to make the remaining Windows drivers for Steam Deck OLED available” – and here we have them, just two days later. This comment came as part of their response to the news that SteamOS will be coming to Windows handhelds such as the ROG Ally, Legion Go, or MSI Claw. More support for gamers, on whatever operating system they prefer.
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