Introduction to the Update
Valve has made an exciting move by merging a new script into the master branch of its SteamOS Gamescope compositor on GitHub. This latest update adds vital display configuration support specifically designed for the ASUS ROG Ally and ROG Ally X. By enabling Gamescope to fully utilize the 48-120 Hz variable refresh rate (VRR) range on their 1920x1080p panels, the handheld gaming experience has reached new heights.
Why VRR Matters
Having a wide VRR range is crucial, especially considering the challenges of maintaining high frame rates on portable devices. These devices typically grapple with limited computational power, making it tough to achieve stability in demanding titles. With VRR support now available down to 48 Hz, handheld consoles can deliver tear-free gaming, even when the gameplay gets graphically intense.
The Future of SteamOS
This recent update follows a string of improvements related to Steam, including an August patch that integrated support for the ASUS ROG Ally and ROG Ally X buttons into the SteamOS input layer. With VRR support now being added, there’s speculation about future iterations of the Steam Deck potentially adopting this feature, given that the current Steam Deck and Steam Deck OLED models do not support it.
Valve’s efforts signal its commitment to optimizing SteamOS for handheld devices, reinforcing the shift from mini PCs to portable gaming consoles. While the exact timeline for a broader SteamOS rollout remains shrouded in Valve’s infamous ‘Valve time’, community-driven SteamOS 3 ports like Bazzite and HoloISO serve as exciting alternatives for enthusiasts eager to explore.
