According to the latest report, the SteamOS 3.2 update adds refresh rate settings and a quieter fan curve to the Steam platform. Steam Deck consoles can now install the just-released SteamOS 3.2 update, which quiets noisy fans, and offers more options for longer battery life, and other improvements.
In SteamOS version 3.2, Steam Deck can switch from the default 60Hz display refresh rate to 40Hz. The frame limiter can then be set, usually at 40, 20 or even 10fps. These settings are per game, so you can keep action games at 60 fps, but limit puzzle games to lower framerate levels to avoid performance hits.
Here’s an interesting note from Valve regarding frame rates. At 30fps, there is a new frame every 33.33ms. ; a new frame every 16.66ms at 60fps; a new frame every 25ms at 40fps, exactly halfway between 30fps and 60fps.
This means games feel noticeably smoother and more responsive without a massive increase in computing power. Valve also points out that frame stability is very important, and for some games, users may want to lock the frame rate at 40fps instead of oscillating up and down.
Steam says 40Hz is often found to be the best setting for balancing responsiveness, coherence, and smoothness. Of course, you can save this setting per game.
SteamOS 3.2 now comes with OS-controlled fan curves. It’s smarter than the old BIOS control system, so the fans are quieter, especially at low usage. The old behavior can also be enabled in the system settings if the user wishes. Valve will continue to tweak the fan controls for further improvements.
Another way to reduce power consumption, noise, and heat is to lower the game’s internal rendering resolution. SteamOS version 3.2 now includes more options. Other improvements. Including the maximum speaker, the volume has been increased, the option to quickly format the microSD card and more.
The Steam client also adds support for “Remote Play Together”. Will allow users to host LAN parties without inviting others. You can also remotely play local multiplayer games with Steam friends, even those that don’t support online. The feature also supports cross-platform play, so even if the game isn’t available for that platform, your friends can join the game using their phone or tablet.