Valve Confirms SteamOS for ROG Ally

Valve's latest SteamOS update is set to revolutionize the handheld gaming world by extending its compatibility to third-party devices like the ROG Ally. Here's a detailed look at how this expansion could transform your gaming experience.

Valve Expands SteamOS Support to ROG Ally Keys

Significant Step for Third-Party Device Compatibility

Valve's recent release of SteamOS 3.6.9 Beta, codenamed "Megafixer," on August 8th, marks a pivotal advancement in enhancing SteamOS functionality. This update, accessible through the Beta and Preview channels for Steam Deck users, notably includes support for the ROG Ally's keys. This move is a testament to Valve's commitment to broadening SteamOS's reach beyond the Steam Deck, integrating seamlessly with third-party devices like ASUS's ROG Ally, which traditionally runs on Windows.

This patch not only brings a wide array of fixes and enhancements but also stands out for its specific mention of ROG Ally key support. It's the first instance where Valve has acknowledged compatibility with a competitor's hardware in their patch notes, signaling a shift towards a more inclusive SteamOS ecosystem.

Valve’s Vision for SteamOS Across Devices

Valve's ambition to extend SteamOS beyond the Steam Deck is not new. Lawrence Yang, a Valve designer, recently shared with The Verge that the update concerning ROG Ally keys is part of a larger plan to support additional handheld devices on SteamOS. This aligns with Valve's long-term goal, dating back to the original SteamOS launch, of creating an open and adaptable gaming platform.

While ASUS has yet to officially endorse SteamOS for the ROG Ally, and Valve acknowledges that SteamOS is not fully ready for non-Steam Deck hardware, this update is a crucial step forward. Yang emphasized Valve's steady progress, underlining their serious intent to expand SteamOS's compatibility, a vision that has been in development for years.

This update reaffirms Valve's commitment to their broader vision and hints at a future where SteamOS could run seamlessly on various gaming hardware, fulfilling a promise that has been central to Valve's strategy since the inception of SteamOS.

Shifting the Handheld Gaming Landscape

Prior to this update, the ROG Ally could only function as a controller when running Steam games. With the addition of support for the ROG Ally's keys, Valve is paving the way for SteamOS to potentially operate on other devices. The "ROG Ally keys" refer to the device's physical controls, such as the D-pad, analog sticks, and buttons. The "extra support" in the update ensures better recognition and mapping of these keys within the Steam ecosystem.

While the full functionality of this feature is yet to be realized, as noted by YouTuber NerdNest, this update signifies the beginning of a potential shift in the handheld gaming landscape. It suggests a future where SteamOS could be a viable operating system across various handheld consoles, offering gamers a more unified and enriched gaming experience.

In summary, Valve's latest SteamOS update is not just a technical enhancement but a strategic move towards a more inclusive and versatile gaming platform, potentially reshaping the future of handheld gaming.