In temporary: Valve all the time meant to let Steam Deck house owners set up Windows on the system in lieu of the Linux-based Steam OS that it ships with. The firm has now taken Windows assist one step additional by eradicating a serious barrier to Windows 11 set up.
Likely essentially the most noteworthy element within the patch notes for the newest Steam Deck OS beta is the added assist for firmware Trusted Platform Module (fTPM), which lets customers set up Windows 11 on the system. The BIOS characteristic is a typical resolution to what turned a controversial requirement for Windows 11 when it first launched.
For a system to formally assist Windows 11, it will need to have TPM 2.0, which initially shocked many customers as a result of it restricted the working system’s compatibility to comparatively current CPUs. This requirement may be met both by way of devoted {hardware} or by way of software-based fTPM.
Valve launched the primary Windows drivers for the Steam Deck early in March, however the preliminary lack of fTPM assist meant the system may solely run Windows 10 till now. AMD hasn’t completed the audio drivers but, so any sound from Steam Decks working Windows must come by way of USB-C or Bluetooth. Furthermore, Valve remains to be engaged on a dual-boot-capable installer, so in the intervening time customers must select between Windows and Steam OS.
The newest beta additionally provides a setting for working video games with uncapped framerates which is present in Quick Access menu > Performance. Additionally, Valve has improved the Steam Deck’s battery life in idle or low-usage conditions.
