Valve has officially released SteamOS 3.7.8 to the stable channel, delivering a wide range of updates and enhancements for all Steam Deck users. This release brings key system upgrades, performance improvements, better controller support, and a more refined desktop experience.
🔧 Key Updates in SteamOS 3.7.8
🖥️ System and Performance
- Updated Linux base: Now based on a newer Arch Linux version with the 6.11 kernel.
- Upgraded Mesa graphics driver, improving compatibility and rendering performance.
- Desktop Mode updated to Plasma 6.2.5, offering a modern UI, new features, and improved stability.
- AMD P-State CPU frequency control is now enabled, providing better performance and power efficiency management.
🔋 Power and Battery
- New Battery Charge Limit option in Settings → Power: lets users cap the maximum charge (e.g., 80%) to extend battery lifespan — particularly useful for users who keep their Steam Deck docked or rarely let the battery drain.
🎮 Controllers and Input
- Extended support for new controllers, including improved handling of Bluetooth gamepads and the ability for them to now wake LCD units from sleep (previously only on OLED).
- Bug fixes: Resolved issues with unresponsive inputs after exiting Steam and gyro malfunctions on initial connection with certain controllers.
📶 Bluetooth Enhancements
- Battery level indicator now available for supported Bluetooth devices.
- Enabled HFP/HSP profiles to allow using integrated microphones on Bluetooth headsets and earbuds (configurable from Desktop Mode).
- Resolved issues with AirPods using the AAC codec, and improved compatibility across a range of Bluetooth devices.
🖼️ Graphics and Docking
- Improved display compatibility for external monitors, including VRR-enabled displays and various TV models.
- Fixed a performance regression in titles like No Rest for the Wicked.
🧰 Desktop Experience
- Faster and more reliable switching between Desktop and Gaming Mode.
- KDE Filelight is now installed by default, helping users visualize disk usage and manage storage.
- gocryptfs support added to enable Plasma Vaults for secure file storage.
- Resolved several issues that could cause system hangs or delays during shutdown or when switching sessions.
🔄 Maintenance and Update Management
- Updated SteamOS recovery image: helpful for restoring or reinstalling SteamOS on your Steam Deck.
- Fixed several cases where updates could fail due to corrupted configuration files.
- Improved system behavior during out-of-memory crashes, ensuring better responsiveness.
- Enhanced DNS compatibility and enabled IPv6 Privacy Extensions by default.
⚠️ Known Issues
- Super NES controllers may incorrectly appear as connected even when they are not.
- Bluetooth LE controllers are currently not compatible with wake-from-sleep on LCD models.
How to Update
To install the SteamOS 3.7.8 update, go to System Settings on your Steam Deck and check for updates.
Valve continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to refining and evolving the Steam Deck platform. With each update, SteamOS becomes more robust, more versatile, and more aligned with the needs of its user base. SteamOS 3.7.8 is a clear step forward in making the Steam Deck an even more powerful handheld gaming device.