Valve has officially rolled out a new feature for the Steam Deck that allows users to download games and updates while the screen is switched off, improving battery life, reducing screen burn, and boosting convenience. The ‘Display-Off Low-Power Mode’ means that users no longer have to keep their device powered on and live while installing things.
This marks the delivery of one of the most asked-for features since the Steam Deck was first released in 2022.
Valve Releases Display-Off Low-Power Mode for the Steam Deck
The new Display-Off Low-Power Mode enables the Steam Deck to continue downloading content even when the screen is turned off. Once downloads are complete, the device will enter a sleep mode automatically, which is similar to how modern consoles like the PlayStation 5 operate.
In a further evolution, it was confirmed that a status screen is accessible by pressing a button or moving one of the joysticks, allowing users to check on their download progress without fully waking their Steam Deck. The Deck will revert to full sleep mode if the battery drops below 20% (unless you’ve got it plugged in or docked).
How to Enable Display-Off Low-Power Mode
The feature Valve has added is available in the Beta and Preview channels. To activate it, you’ll need to follow these steps to switch it on:
- Go to Settings > System > System Update Channel
- Opt into the Beta or Preview Channel
- Navigate to Settings > Power to configure display-off downloads
You can then further tweak the setting to choose whether downloads continue when the device is reliant on battery power.
Fans were quick to comment positively on social media when Valve posted the news, which marks a great step forward for the Steam Deck as plenty of other handheld devices swarm.
Are you grateful for the addition of this new Steam Deck feature? Let me know what you’re thinking on the Insider Gaming Discord server.
For more Insider Gaming coverage, check out the news that MindsEye developers have released an odd new trailer for the game
Grant has been gaming for 30+ years and in the industry for 10+. You'll probably find him playing a post-apocalyptic game or an extraction shooter somewhere.
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