Valve released an opt-in Beta update with SteamOS 0.4.1 for Steam Frame, bringing some new features and fixing up a bunch of nuisances.
You can try it out by switching your update channel via Settings > System > System Update Channel. This is a separate SteamOS build to what's found on the Steam Deck and Steam Machine, with features tailored to the VR kit.
Still waiting on getting your Steam Frame? Join us in the Steam Frame waiting room on the Forum.
- Fixed "Return to Gaming mode" when starting up directly into Desktop mode.
- Fixed rare cases of other network interfaces causing disruption of wireless dongle connection.
- Spectator view is now smoothed by default. Spectator view can be accessed on PC via Steam > Settings > Remote Play, or any device that supports Steam Link to preview what the Steam Frame user is seeing in headset.
- Users can now specify their Dominant Eye in VR Settings. This controls which eye is used for spectator view, screenshots, etc.
- Added option to disable spectator view smoothing under VR Settings > Developer (in headset).
- Fixed an issue where the dashboard would recenter unnecessarily for some users.
- Improved focus handling and gamepad navigation in the dashboard.
- Fixed a case of dashboard panels flickering.
- Miscellaneous performance and stability improvements.
- Updated embedded browser (CEF) with crash fixes and Linux H.264 detection fixes.
- Fixed the keyboard not appearing while streaming.
- Audio: downmix and binaural rendering now have matching volume across all formats.
- Improved proximity sensor detection model.
This OS release includes SteamVR (2.18.1)
Valve also released a Steam Client Update For Frame:
- Improved color accuracy when streaming non-VR games from a Windows PC.
- Support for "Show Battery Percentage" in Dashboard Bar.
- Support for gamepad navigation in the Streaming menu.
From reports we've seen across our Discord, comments and elsewhere - the experience has been quite rough for a brand new release. Hopefully Valve will make more rapid improvements soon.
Whenever I manage to get off the waitlist, I'll be sure to write up my own first-hand thoughts on it. Valve never replied to GamingOnLinux for review hardware.
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