Valve has announced a new OLED Steam Deck portable gaming device that comes with a number of improvements over the original launch model. Most notable is the 90Hz OLED panel which will definitely improve the visual experience on the device. The 7.4-inch OLED panel replaces the 7-inch panel and delivers brighter colours, darker blacks and also supports HDR.
The new Steam Deck OLED also comes with a better battery. Valve says users can expect 30-40% improved battery life compared to the launch model. The OLED device also comes with Wi-Fi 6E and some thermal changes to improve the cooling. Valve is also phasing out the 64GB Steam Deck and sticking to 256GB, 512GB and 1TB versions on the new OLED model.
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This all sounds very “Nintendo” because it is. Nintendo also revamped its Switch to include an OLED display in the later version. However, the internal storage wasn’t changed at all. Just like the Switch OLED lived alongside the launch model, Valve says this new OLED Steam Deck isn’t the “next-generation” device. It is simply a minor upgrade to the LCD version.
When speaking to Bloomberg about the device, Valve says the company is still working on a “Steam Deck 2” which will feature “next-generation” improvements and performance upgrades. The company says it won’t be available for at least two-three years.
So those worrying about investing in a Steam Deck only to have a better model arrive within the next few months can rest assured knowing it won’t happen for a while now. Valve has confirmed it is definitely working on a true “next-gen” model but we’ll likely see it by 2025/2026 at this rate.
The Steam Deck OLED will be available from 16 November at a price of $549 / €569 / £479 for the 512GB version and $649 / €679 / £569 for the 1TB version.
