The Steam Deck has introduced a highly anticipated feature, allowing players to download games in low-power mode while the device's screen is off. Previously, downloads required the screen to remain active, which consumed battery life. Now, Valve enables the Steam Deck to complete downloads in this new low-power mode automatically after an idle timeout or when the power button is pressed, which prompts the user to continue downloads with the screen off. This feature currently is available for users in Beta and Preview channels but is expected to roll out to all soon.

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This rollout adds significant convenience, especially for users who want to preserve battery life while downloading games. Additionally, with recent updates improving the device's OLED screen and overall performance, the Steam Deck continues to compete strongly in the growing handheld gaming market.

How does the new low-power download mode work on the Steam Deck?

The low-power download mode works by allowing downloads to continue while the screen is off. Users can enable this feature by pressing the power button during a download and selecting the option to continue downloading with the screen off. The device will also automatically enter this mode after a period of inactivity, helping to save battery.

The Steam Deck, released by Valve, has pioneered the handheld gaming PC market. Its impact can be seen through the emergence of numerous competitors and models that aim to offer portable gaming experiences. The Steam Deck's combination of accessibility and performance has made it a notable choice for gamers looking for a versatile gaming setup on the go.