You can’t just deny the fact that the launch of Steam Deck in 2022 completely changed the PC handheld market. While we did have other handhelds prior to the release of Steam Deck, their reach was limited mainly due to price and accessibility. But thanks to Valve, the world of PC handhelds has changed a lot. Since it entered the market, other major players have also arrived to get a piece of the pie. From Lenovo’s Legion Go, Asus’s Rog Ally, and now MSI’s upcoming MSI Claw, it’s safe to say that right now it’s the best time to be a PC handheld user. Valve, too, hasn’t slacked off. Just recently, in November 2023, the company released a mid-gen refresh of the Steam Deck handheld called the Steam Deck OLED. Like the LCD version, this one too has become quite a hit with the users, and for many, it’s also a good enough handheld to enjoy Windows games that they can’t really play on the SteamOS. However, there seems to be a problem with that. To be precise, the issue lies with Windows 11 drivers for Wi-Fi, Audio, and Bluetooth, which aren’t released yet. So, when are they releasing for the Steam Deck OLED?
For the uninitiated, Valve itself provides important drivers for their handheld. They did the same with the LCD variant, and it will be the same with OLED. However, due to how new the OLED is, players have been unable to get the previously mentioned three drivers. So, has Valve announced a release date for these drivers? Well, continue reading to find out!
Steam Deck OLED Windows 11 Drivers (WiFi, Audio, Bluetooth) Release Date: When they will be available to download
At the time of publishing this, Valve is yet to announce any kind of release date or other information related to the release date of Windows Wi-Fi, Audio, and Bluetooth drivers for the Steam Deck OLED. In fact, currently, the only drivers we have right now for the Steam Deck OLED are APU and SD Card reader drivers. Valve has stated:
“Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Audio drivers for Windows on Steam Deck OLED are currently being worked on, and will be available soon.”
So, it seems like OLED users will have to wait a while for these. Well, considering the OLED’s popularity and the player base switching to Windows for a better gaming experience, we think that these drivers will be released in 2024 itself, but a more precise timing can’t be shared yet.
While the official drivers are yet to arrive, the Steam Deck community has found some workarounds. Basically, for the Wi-Fi drivers, players can use this one by Lenovo. Many have indeed found that this does work, so we recommend you give it a try.
On the other hand, the community hasn’t been able to get alternative Audio and Bluetooth drivers. Some players have switched to using the AudioRelay app, which can be used to send your Steam Deck’s audio to your phone via Wi-Fi. Others have instead decided to use a USB-C sound card. Or, you can just use the good old headphone jack.
Well, that’s all the information we have on this topic right now. Additionally, if you want to know whether Pacific Drive will be playable on the Deck, Legion Go, and Rog Ally, take a look at this. Lastly, as always, don’t forget to follow DigiStatement. Also, read: Silent Hill 2 Remake (2024) Steam Deck, Legion Go & Asus Rog Ally Support details
