New SteamOS 3.7.8 update, with advanced Linux features and improved performance.
Steam OS 3.7.8: Valve’s Linux Gaming OS Levels Up
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Valve’s Steam OS just received a major upgrade, and techies, nerds, and gaming enthusiasts have plenty to get excited about. With the arrival of Steam OS 3.7.8, Valve isn’t just refining its flagship Steam Deck; it’s also expanding the OS’s reach, technical powers, and device compatibility.
Let’s understand and break down the new technologies and technical advancements that make this update a game-changer.
Steam OS: Technical Advancements Under the Hood
Updated Linux Base and Kernel
The latest Steam OS update moves to a newer Arch Linux base and the Linux 6.11 kernel. This change brings better hardware compatibility, improved security, and more efficient resource management. As a result, users will notice smoother performance and greater stability across supported devices.
Mesa Graphics and Plasma 6
Valve updated the Mesa graphics drivers, squeezing out extra performance and allowing compatibility with the latest AMD GPUs. In addition, KDE Plasma 6.2.5 now powers Desktop Mode, offering a modern, snappier, and visually refined experience. Navigating your game library or tweaking settings feels faster and more intuitive than ever, in latest Steam OS.
Smart Power Management
One of the standout features of Steam OS 3.7 is the new Battery Charge Limit. Gamers can now cap the maximum charge (for example, at 80%), which helps prolong battery life – especially for those who keep their device docked or plugged in for long sessions. This feature, long seen in laptops and phones, now enters the handheld gaming arena, making Steam OS smarter about battery health.
“Limiting the charge limit to 80% can be beneficial for long term battery health. This can be useful if your Steam Deck is constantly being charged (e.g. docked), or very rarely has its battery depleted.”
Frame Limiting and VRR
Steam OS 3.7.8 introduces frame limiting for Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) displays – both internal and external. This means smoother visuals and less screen tearing, even when frame rates fluctuate. Gamers who demand buttery-smooth gameplay will appreciate this technical leap.
Steam OS 3.7: Expanded Device Support
Beyond the Steam Deck
Valve is no longer keeping SteamOS exclusive to its own hardware. The update brings official support for the Lenovo Legion Go S, making it the first non-Steam Deck handheld to ship with SteamOS out of the box. Additionally, improved support for the ASUS ROG Ally and the original Lenovo Legion Go means more AMD-powered handhelds can now run SteamOS. Valve even provides a recovery image and installation instructions for tech-savvy users who want to experiment on their own hardware.
Enhanced Controller and Bluetooth Support
Gamers can now use a wider range of controllers, including the Proteus Byowave modular controller. Valve also fixed issues with the Switch Pro Controller and improved Bluetooth connectivity. For the first time, Bluetooth microphones (like those in wireless earbuds) are supported in Desktop Mode, and users can now view the battery level of connected Bluetooth devices.
Why SteamOS Matters for Gaming Enthusiasts
SteamOS is rapidly becoming a real challenger to Windows in the gaming space. With its open-source foundation, regular technical improvements, and growing hardware compatibility, it’s attracting attention from both gamers and tinkerers. The latest update shows Valve’s commitment to making gaming more accessible, customizable, and technically robust.
Steam OS 3.7: Conclusion
For those who love to tweak, optimize, and push their devices, SteamOS 3.7.8 is a dream come true. With smarter power management, advanced graphics support, and official expansion to new hardware, Valve is setting a new standard for Linux gaming. If you haven’t tried SteamOS yet, now is the perfect time to jump in and explore what this evolving platform has to offer.
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Reference
- Steam Deck – SteamOS 3.7.8: Go Country – Steam News. (2025, May 23). https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1675200/view/820329049655084700
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Driven by passion for leveraging technology to “Build things worth Building”. I am a Software Engineer with a background in Computer Engineering from Pune University.
Having done multiple internships and volunteering programs throughout my engineering days, I have been deeply involved in the end-to-end development lifecycle, from conceptualization and design to implementation and deployment. I have been a part and also led teams at times to national/international level hackathons. Some of those include Peerlist GenAI Hackathon and NASA Space App challenges.
My educational foundation in Computer Engineering paired with the real world hands-on experience through various ventures provided me with strong knowledge of fundamental technologies.
Continuously seeking opportunities to learn and contribute. I am eager to connect with fellow innovators and contribute to impactful projects.
Great for new pc gamers