Valve's Latest Steam Deck OLED Sparks Curiosity About Steam Deck 2

Valve, the company behind the popular Steam Deck, has recently unveiled an upgraded OLED model, igniting discussions about what the next version of the handheld gaming PC might offer. This new release, while not labeled as Steam Deck 2, brings significant enhancements that align with what gamers have been hoping for in a future model.

Enhancements That Set the Stage

This latest OLED iteration of the Steam Deck boasts an array of improvements, including extended battery life, enhanced cooling systems, and more storage options. Notably, these upgrades come without any increase in price compared to the original Steam Deck models. The older versions remain on sale but at lower prices, making them more accessible.

Gamers' attention has quickly turned to what a possible Steam Deck 2 could feature, given the substantial updates in the OLED model. In a discussion with IGN, Jay Shaw, the Steam Deck designer, was asked about the prospects of a Steam Deck 2. Shaw indicated that while the team constantly thinks about the next version, a new model is not imminent. He suggested that a significant technological advancement would be necessary for the next substantial leap in hardware.

Despite the lack of a definitive timeline for Steam Deck 2, Shaw expressed satisfaction with the current OLED model, which has already positioned itself as one of the top handheld gaming consoles.

Anticipation Builds for Steam Deck 2

This isn't the first hint from Valve regarding a future successor to the Steam Deck. A company representative previously mentioned that a new device might not launch until the end of 2025 or later, aligning with Shaw's statement about the wait for a new version.

The Steam Deck, known for its affordability and the SteamOS operating system, continues to hold a strong position in the handheld PC gaming market, even as competitors emerge. The OLED model's introduction serves to strengthen Valve's offering in this space, providing gamers with enhanced features while they await the eventual release of the Steam Deck 2.

Image: Petar Vukobrat