As much as I adore my Steam Deck, there are often stretches of days or weeks where I neglect to turn it on. This can lead to a frustrating pile of downloads waiting for me each time I finally pick it up.
Fortunately, a new feature available in the latest Steam Deck firmware might just make this hassle a thing of the past. It allows you to download updates and full game installations—even with the display turned off—before the device switches to sleep mode. And according to Valve, you can start using this feature right now.
Valve elaborated, stating, “Display-off downloads are accessible in two ways.” The first method allows you to press the power button while the Steam Deck is downloading content, which brings up a dialog asking if you want to continue downloading with the screen off. If you select “Continue,” the Steam Deck will enter a low-power download mode. Automatic activation of this mode will also occur after a designated idle timeout.
This feature is enabled by default whenever your Steam Deck is plugged in, but you can also activate it for battery use from the system’s power settings. Personally, I can’t wait to enable this feature to reduce those daunting download waits.
While this addition doesn’t eliminate the annoyance of needing updates, it’s definitely a step in the right direction. In low-power download mode, even a simple button press or moving the device will show you the download progress. And if you’re on battery mode, the Deck will automatically enter sleep mode once the battery level dips below 20 percent, an excellent quality-of-life improvement.
Since its 2022 release, the Steam Deck has faced stiff competition from newer handheld PCs, and I’m eagerly anticipating Valve’s next model before making the upgrade. For now, I’ll settle for these incremental updates.
And let me just say, Valve, I’m looking forward to Steam Deck 2—where such thoughtful features will ideally come standard.
Is it possible to download games on the Steam Deck while it’s off?
Yes, with the new display-off download feature, you can minimize power usage while downloading games, making it convenient to manage updates.
How do I enable display-off downloads on my Steam Deck?
It’s automatically enabled when plugged in. For battery usage, you can activate it in the system settings under the Power menu.
Will the Steam Deck download updates while in sleep mode?
Yes, with the display-off download feature, the Steam Deck will continue downloading updates even when the screen is off, allowing for a smoother experience.
What happens if my Steam Deck’s battery gets low while downloading?
If the battery drops below 20 percent, the Steam Deck will automatically enter sleep mode, ensuring you don’t run out of power during downloads.
Are there plans for a Steam Deck 2?
While there hasn’t been an official announcement, many users are hopeful for an upgraded model that includes improved features and hardware.
In conclusion, the Steam Deck continues to evolve, introducing features that enhance user experience. Stay tuned for more updates, and feel free to explore related content on Moyens I/O.