Steam Deck Update Adds Lock Screen and Window Switching
Valve has released a hefty update for the Steam Deck that adds a lock screen, window switching, and more.
The changes were revealed in the latest patch notes, but Valve also released a deep-dive into the more significant features, first showing off the new lock screen (below).
The optional feature lets users set a PIN when the Steam Deck wakes or boots up, or when logging in or switching to Desktop mode.
Window switching can now be used on any software that already supports the feature and essentially brings up a handy quick select menu that lets users move swiftly between their games and apps.
Valve also updated the achievements page to make it load faster and easier to navigate, and added the option to compare your achievements with those of friends or global stats.
The last main feature highlighted in the deep-dive is the addition of localised keyboards. Valve has added keyboards for 21 languages and layouts, and multiple layouts can be enabled at the same time through the globe button (similar to Android and iOS).
The new additions don't include keyboards for Chinese, Japanese, or Korean, but Valve said it was working on those and they'll appear in the future.
It's the first major update for a while, but the Steam Deck has already seem some other big additions since launch including the addition of Windows compatibility and Xbox Game Pass support.
In our 7/10 review, IGN said: "When Steam Deck lives up to its promises, it's sublime, but when it falls short, it falls hard."
The full patch notes can be seen below:
Client Update:
OS Update:
Ryan Dinsdale is an IGN freelancer who occasionally remembers to tweet @thelastdinsdale. He'll talk about The Witcher all day.
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