SteamOS 3.8.26 beta releases with several improvements and fixes
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Valve has released SteamOS 3.8.26 beta, bringing several fixes and improvements to the operating system. The latest update focuses mostly on addressing problems introduced in previous beta builds, along with a number of fixes for Steam Deck and other compatible handhelds.
What does the update offer?
One of the more important fixes targets performance issues when composition is required. Valve says some previous beta builds could cause degraded performance in certain situations, such as when FSR is enabled. The latest update addresses that problem, which should help provide more consistent performance in affected games.
The update also fixes several Desktop Mode issues. Firefox could sometimes freeze when running in fullscreen, while certain displays could previously allow resolutions below 640×480, potentially making the desktop unusable. Both problems have now been addressed.
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VR gaming is getting a fix as well. Valve has worked around an issue that could cause Unreal Engine 5 VR games to display a blank image in the right eye. There are also several controller and connectivity fixes. The update improves Bluetooth stability with the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller (v1) and fixes a Wi-Fi regression that was affecting the MSI Claw A1M in previous beta builds.
Valve has also included fixes specifically for other gaming handhelds. Lenovo Legion Go models should now show battery information correctly, while an issue that could cause the MSI Claw to freeze when resuming with an SD card inserted has been fixed. Another resume-related bug that could freeze the system if an SD card was removed while the device was suspended has also been addressed.
That said, it’s important to keep in mind that SteamOS 3.8.26 is currently a beta release, so it will be tested by users before Valve pushes the changes to the regular public version. This allows Valve to find additional bugs and make further improvements before the update becomes widely available.
Users who want to try the beta can opt in through Settings > System > System Update Channel and select the Beta or Preview channel. Keep in mind that beta software can sometimes introduce new problems, so it may be better to stick with the stable channel if you want a smoother experience.
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