ROG Ally Now SteamOS Compatible

Valve's SteamOS Update Opens Doors for Wider Device Compatibility, Including the ROG Ally

Valve's recent SteamOS 3.6.9 Beta update, nicknamed "Megafixer," introduces key support for the ASUS ROG Ally, marking a significant step towards broader third-party device compatibility. This update, currently available for Steam Deck users in Beta and Preview channels, includes crucial fixes and improvements but is especially noteworthy for its inclusion of ROG Ally key support.

This is a landmark moment, as it's the first time Valve has explicitly acknowledged supporting a competitor's hardware in their patch notes. It strongly suggests a wider vision for SteamOS beyond its current Steam Deck exclusivity.

Expanding SteamOS's Reach

Valve designer Lawrence Yang confirmed this broader strategy in an interview with The Verge, stating the team is actively working on adding support for more handheld devices. While ASUS hasn't officially endorsed SteamOS for the ROG Ally, and full SteamOS functionality on non-Steam Deck hardware isn't yet ready, this update is a major milestone. Yang's comments about "steady progress" underscore Valve's serious commitment to expanding SteamOS beyond its own hardware.

This update not only reinforces Valve's long-held vision of an open and adaptable gaming platform but also hints at a future where SteamOS powers a wider range of gaming devices, fulfilling a long-standing promise.

Reshaping the Handheld Gaming Landscape

Previously, the ROG Ally functioned primarily as a controller within the Steam ecosystem. This update's "extra support" for ROG Ally keys—the physical buttons and controls—aims to improve key mapping and functionality within Steam. However, YouTuber NerdNest reports that full functionality isn't yet realized, even with the latest beta update.

This development could be the catalyst for a major shift in handheld gaming. If Valve continues this trajectory, SteamOS could become a viable operating system for various handheld consoles, creating a more unified and potentially richer cross-device gaming experience. While the immediate impact on the ROG Ally is limited, this update represents a pivotal step towards a more flexible and inclusive SteamOS ecosystem.