Valve has confirmed plans to bring its Linux-based SteamOS operating system to other devices, including the rival ASUS ROG Ally. While it’s early days right now, it would introduce a more lightweight operating system to some of Valve’s rivals, if they so wish to make use of it.
Originally envisioned as a platform for PC manufacturers to create “Steam Machines,” a concept that took nearly a decade, Valve has always intended for SteamOS to be more widely accessible. Recent developments and statements from Valve have solidified these plans, over 2 years since the Steam Deck took the industry by storm.
SteamOS to support additional handheld devices
A recent SteamOS update included unexpected references to the ROG Ally, sparking speculation about Valve’s intentions. Valve designer Lawrence Yang confirmed (via The Verge) that these references indicate the company’s ongoing efforts to support additional handheld devices on SteamOS. While this doesn’t mean ASUS will officially endorse or sell the Ally with SteamOS, it’s a significant step towards a more open ecosystem.
It’s important to note that Valve is still in the early stages of developing SteamOS for broader compatibility. While “making steady progress,” the company isn’t ready to offer a seamless out-of-the-box experience for other handhelds yet. Similarly, a general release of SteamOS 3 for non-handheld PCs is also on the horizon but not imminent.
Still waiting on dual-booting
In addition to expanding SteamOS to other hardware, Valve has previously promised to enable dual-booting between SteamOS and Windows on the Steam Deck. This would give users the best of both worlds, for a less bloated experience on SteamOS (compared to Windows), and the ability to hop back onto Windows for games that lack support in Linux – the main offenders being multiplayer games with incompatible anti-cheat software such as Fortnite and Call of Duty.
While the company is working on the necessary Windows drivers, dual-boot support is not yet available. These developments show a broader push by Valve to make SteamOS a more versatile and accessible platform. By supporting a wider range of devices and offering users more flexibility, Valve aims to strengthen its position in the gaming industry and provide gamers with more choices while still making the most of its Linux-based ecosystem.
