Valve released the first preview version of SteamOS 3.9 for Steam Deck and compatible handhelds. This update matters because it removes a major hardware barrier for Intel GPU owners. Users no longer need to rely on complex workarounds to run their games.
Valve removes AMD workaround for Intel GPU owners
The operating system now boots natively on the Intel Arc B580 graphics card. Previous versions required users to install AMD Radeon drivers as a relay station to make Intel cards work. This change simplifies the setup process significantly for PC gamers using Valve's platform.
The update upgrades the Linux kernel to version 7.2 stable. Desktop mode also moves to KDE Plasma 6.7.3 for improved stability. The WiFi backend switches to wpa_supplicant to enhance network compatibility across different hardware configurations.
Performance testing shows the Arc B580 runs Cyberpunk 2077 and Horizon Zero Dawn stably at 1440p resolution. However, Intel's XeSS upscaling technology only functions partially. Current open-source drivers cannot fully access the XMX matrix extension engine required for full feature support. The system also adds preliminary hibernation support, though this feature remains hidden in the Game Mode interface.
We looked at the last SteamOS update earlier while tracking platform stability improvements. The current release focuses on broadening hardware support rather than introducing new gaming features. Valve continues to refine the Linux gaming environment for handheld device users.
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