Valve has officially released SteamOS 3.9, introducing battery efficiency improvements, updated system components, and fixes for several popular PC games.
The update upgrades SteamOS to Linux kernel 7.2 and introduces KDE Plasma 6.7.3 for Desktop Mode. It also improves compatibility with Steam Machine, Steam Frame, and selected handheld gaming devices.
Steam Deck owners can expect reduced idle power consumption when no audio is playing, alongside improvements to wireless connectivity and system stability.
SteamOS 3.9 Improves Battery Efficiency and Desktop Mode
One of the main improvements addresses unnecessary power consumption when the Steam Deck is idle.
Valve has optimized energy usage when no audio is playing, potentially helping the handheld conserve battery during inactive periods.
Desktop Mode has also been upgraded from KDE Plasma 6.4.3 to version 6.7.3, bringing interface improvements and updated desktop functionality.
The operating system now uses Linux kernel 7.2 and an updated Arch Linux foundation.
SteamOS 3.9 also fixes connection problems involving hidden WiFi networks and improves wireless reconnection after waking from sleep.
SteamOS 3.9 Fixes Issues in Elden Ring and Forza Horizon 6
Several games receive targeted compatibility and performance fixes.
| Game | Improvement |
|---|---|
| Star Wars: Galactic Racer | Fixes performance after resuming from sleep |
| Elden Ring | Resolves launch issues on recent Intel processors |
| Dark Souls III | Fixes compatibility with Intel Panther Lake CPUs |
| The Crew Motorfest | Addresses potential GPU errors |
| Forza Horizon 6 | Fixes crashes on Legion Go 2 |
The update also resolves frame limiter problems affecting external displays and variable refresh rate configurations.
Additionally, Valve has fixed input loss caused by accidentally moving launcher windows in Game Mode.
Steam Machine and Legion Go 2 Receive Additional Improvements
Steam Machine receives fixes for Remote Play, firmware updates, and streaming to Steam Frame.
Support for the Steam Frame wireless adapter has also been improved.
For Lenovo Legion Go 2, Valve introduces preliminary brightness controls and addresses a system crash affecting Forza Horizon 6.
Other changes include improved suspend functionality, security updates, and experimental support for hibernation.
However, hibernation remains unavailable through the Game Mode interface and is not enabled on Steam Deck because of an unresolved driver issue.
SteamOS 3.9 is available through the system update menu. You can install it by opening Settings, navigating to System, checking for updates, and applying the latest release.
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