Valve is expanding SteamOS to support Arm-based devices, potentially transforming the landscape of PC gaming by enabling gaming on a wider range of hardware, including handhelds. This development could lead to a significant increase in hardware options with native SteamOS support, offering more choices across different price and performance levels. While Arm-based chipsets are becoming more competitive, especially in lower power segments, challenges remain for desktop PC gamers using Nvidia GPUs due to the early stage of open-source driver integration. This expansion signifies a move towards more inclusive and versatile gaming experiences beyond traditional x86 platforms. Why this matters: The expansion of SteamOS to Arm devices could democratize access to PC gaming, offering more affordable and varied hardware options to a broader audience.
NVIDIA's decision to drop support for Pascal GPUs on Linux has caused disruptions, particularly for Arch Linux users who rely on these older graphics cards. This change has led to compatibility issues and forced users to seek alternative solutions or upgrade their hardware to maintain system stability and performance. The move highlights the challenges of maintaining support for older technology in rapidly evolving software ecosystems. Understanding these shifts is crucial for users and developers to adapt and ensure seamless operation of their systems.