Valve Tests Screen-Off Downloads for Steam Deck
Valve is rolling out a new low-power download mode for the Steam Deck, enabling the handheld to complete active downloads with its display turned off. This feature is currently available through the Steam Deck’s Beta and Preview channels.
The update answers a longstanding user request by allowing games and updates to download without needing to keep the screen on. When a download is underway and the power button is pressed, a dialog box appears asking the user whether to continue downloading with the screen off or to enter full sleep mode.
Low-Power Mode Operation
If "Continue" is selected, the Deck switches to the low-power state. While in this mode, pressing any button or moving the device brings up a status screen showing the download’s progress. From there, users can choose to fully wake the device or let it keep downloading with the screen off.
Settings and Activation
- The feature activates by default when the Steam Deck is connected to power.
- Users can opt-in to use this mode on battery power through the device's settings.
"With the new update, when a user presses the power button while a download is in progress, a new dialog box will appear. This prompt asks if the user wants to continue downloading with the screen off or enter full sleep mode."
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Author's summary: Valve introduces a new low-power download mode for Steam Deck, enabling downloads with the screen off to save energy and improve user convenience.