Key Points
- The new Steam Deck update adds a “display-off low-power mode” for downloads.
- This mode allows the device to download games and updates while the screen is off.
- It is enabled by default when plugged in and can be set to work on battery power (above 20%).
- The feature is similar to the “rest mode” found on modern gaming consoles.
Valve is rolling out a helpful new update for the Steam Deck, adding a feature that lets users download content while the device’s screen is turned off. The company calls this new function a “display-off low-power mode.”
This new mode will be enabled by default whenever the Steam Deck is plugged into a power source. Users can also go into the handheld’s power settings to keep it active while running on battery, though it has a built-in safety measure. The Steam Deck will automatically switch to full sleep mode when the battery level drops below 20 percent to prevent a complete drain.
The system is designed to be intuitive. If a user presses the power button while a download is in progress, a dialog box will appear asking whether the download should continue with the display off. The device will also automatically enter this low-power mode if it’s left idle and reaches its timeout setting.
In practical terms, this feature works much like the “rest mode” on modern consoles like the PlayStation and Xbox, which allows downloads and updates while the machine isn’t in use.
This is a great quality-of-life improvement for Steam Deck players. For example, if you’re playing a competitive online game, you no longer have to worry about a big download slowing down your internet connection and causing lag. You can simply let the download run later. It’s a convenient feature that makes the powerful handheld feel even more like a complete gaming console.
