Earlier today, Valve unleashed SteamOS 3.6.9 Beta via the Steam Deck Beta and Preview channels. As usual, it comes with new features and fixes that are still being tested before the final release, so SteamOS 3.6.9 might launch with slightly different highlights. SteamOS users who haven't been testing this kind of release in the past can go to Settings > System > System Update Channel to join.

The list of fixes and new features is split in the following categories: General, External Display, Input, and OLED Firmware 112. The first category is the most comprehensive, with no less than 11 items, including a slightly improved cold boot time and fixes for various issues, including corrupted sound output in certain boots and the remote code execution bug (CVE-2024-6387). The two display-related issues involved a blank external display on resume and if its mode required chroma subsampling.

In the Input category, SteamOS 3.6.9 Beta comes with support for the Asus ROG Raikiri Pro and the Machenike G5 Pro controllers, extra ROG Ally keys, fixes for several DualShock 4-compatible controllers with calibration problems, and support for the Steam Deck motion sensors in the built-in non-Steam kernel driver. An issue involving both the DualShock 4 and DualSense controllers failing to work properly on the first connection has been addressed as well.

Lastly, the OLED Firmware 112 section only mentions the introduction of support for the Windows Bluetooth driver. Those interested in a full package can currently grab the Valve Steam Deck (512 GB, LCD) with carrying case, tempered film, and soft silicone protective caseoff Amazon for $487.99.