Valve's SteamOS Launches on Non-Valve System

Lenovo Legion Go S: SteamOS Arrives on a Third-Party Handheld

Lenovo's upcoming Legion Go S gaming handheld marks a significant milestone: it's the first non-Valve device to ship with SteamOS. This collaboration expands SteamOS beyond the Steam Deck, offering consumers a new option in the burgeoning handheld PC market.

The Legion Go S, launching in May 2025 for $499, will feature Valve's Linux-based SteamOS with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. This version provides a smooth, console-like experience, a key advantage over Windows-based competitors like the Asus ROG Ally X and MSI Claw 8 AI+, which can sometimes struggle with portable optimization. Valve has confirmed full feature parity with the Steam Deck, ensuring consistent updates (excluding hardware-specific adjustments).

A Windows 11 version of the Legion Go S will also be available, starting at $599 (16GB RAM/1TB storage) in January 2025, with a higher-spec model at $729 (32GB RAM/1TB storage). While the flagship Legion Go 2 currently lacks SteamOS support, Lenovo may reconsider based on the Legion Go S's reception.

Currently, Lenovo holds the exclusive license for a SteamOS-powered handheld from Valve. However, Valve's announcement of a public SteamOS beta for other handhelds in the coming months suggests broader accessibility is on the horizon. This opens up exciting possibilities for owners of devices like the Asus ROG Ally to experience the benefits of SteamOS.