Steam Deck may soon update like a console as Valve studies docked support
Valve hardware engineer Yazan Aldehayyat told The Verge that the company is interested in supporting automatic docked updates for the Steam Deck, following last week’s announcement of three new hardware products expected in early 2026.
Valve revealed the Steam Machine, an updated Steam Controller, and a new Steam Frame VR headset. The Steam Machine functions as a compact, pre-built gaming PC designed for easy use in the living room. None of these products constitutes a second-generation Steam Deck. Valve has not disclosed pricing information for any of the devices, all slated for release in early 2026.
Aldehayyat explained to The Verge that automatic docked updates represent something the company is really interested in supporting for the Steam Deck. He did not commit to implementing this feature on the handheld device. The expression of interest from Valve indicates active consideration of the requested quality-of-life improvement.
At present, the Steam Deck downloads and applies updates only while powered on. The device cannot perform these operations in sleep mode, regardless of whether it remains docked. This limitation requires users to keep the Steam Deck fully active during the update process.
In contrast, the upcoming Steam Machine supports more convenient background updating options. It downloads and applies updates while idle or not in use. A built-in LED strip on the Steam Machine reports update progress even when the connected display or TV stays turned off. This visual indicator allows users to monitor status without powering on the screen.
Aldehayyat expressed a desire to introduce seamless background updates to the Steam Deck in a docked state, mirroring the Steam Machine’s capabilities. He specifically noted, as told to The Verge, that this functionality aligns with preferences for the handheld.
Handhelds like the Steam Deck present extra considerations for background updates. These include the potential loss of power or Wi-Fi connection upon removal from the dock. Such interruptions pose risks during the update process, distinguishing handhelds from stationary devices like the Steam Machine. Valve recognizes these challenges while maintaining interest in the feature.
The announcements and comments from Aldehayyat highlight Valve’s ongoing development efforts across its hardware lineup, with the Steam Deck update feature under evaluation alongside the new products.
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