The Steam Deck is perhaps the most well-liked Linux PC ever, although you’d be forgiven if you happen to haven’t realized that its SteamOS software program is technically Linux. The Proton compatibility layer is the Steam Deck’s particular sauce, permitting video games made for Home windows to run on Linux with out a large headache. Now Valve is seemingly testing a model for ARM {hardware}.

“Proton-arm64ec-5” shouldn’t be public, however was noticed within the SteamDB.data database (reported by Tom’s {Hardware}), with that “arm64” label being indicative of a model of the instrument designed particularly for ARM-based gadgets. ARM {hardware} is in a number of completely different stuff, however most notably it’s the structure used for cell gadgets together with telephones and tablets. Apple switched from Intel chips to its personal ARM-based processors for Macbook laptops in 2020, and the newest push for ARM-based Home windows gadgets contains “Copilot+” laptops working on Snapdragon processors from Qualcomm.

So, a model of the Proton layer particularly optimized for ARM {hardware} might open up a number of choices. Probably the most rapid factor that involves my thoughts is SteamOS working on Steam Deck-style gadgets with ARM {hardware}.

There are already tons of handheld gaming gadgets that use ARM-based chips, they’ve exploded in recognition because the launch of the Nintendo Change in 2017 (which additionally makes use of ARM {hardware}, Nvidia’s Tegra X platform). However there are indications that Valve desires SteamOS on {hardware} past the Steam Deck, particularly the Asus ROG Ally household. One other different is that Valve is trying into the potential for an ARM-based Steam Deck itself — the unique mannequin based mostly on AMD laptop computer processors is getting a bit lengthy within the tooth.

Valve is also trying into boosting the efficiency of Steam working on Linux gadgets utilizing ARM chips. ARM-based {hardware} for gaming usually runs Android, with a concentrate on cell video games or emulating basic consoles. It’s doable to run Home windows recreation on ARM-based Snapdragon laptops, however you’re taking an enormous hit in efficiency. MacOS runs into related points, although it’s much less of a priority as Mac laptops and desktops nonetheless aren’t of main curiosity for PC players.

Understand that Valve hasn’t stated something at this level. All I’m doing is speculating on some prospects and if I’m being trustworthy, going solely on the “arm64” label in that SteamDB entry. However I confess that the prospect of a smaller, extra environment friendly, and presumably even cheaper Steam Deck mannequin working on ARM {hardware} has me very intrigued.