Valve has released SteamOS 3.8.0 in preview, marking a significant expansion of hardware support for the gaming-focused operating system. The update represents the first version to support Valve's upcoming Steam Machine living room gaming PC.

The release extends compatibility beyond Valve's own hardware to include support for gaming devices from multiple manufacturers. Third-party hardware from companies including Microsoft and Asus now receives enhanced support in the operating system.

Both AMD and Intel-based hardware platforms are receiving improved support in SteamOS 3.8, according to technical documentation. This broader hardware compatibility suggests Valve is positioning SteamOS as a more universal gaming platform rather than one limited to its own devices.

The update includes what Valve describes as long-awaited features for its handheld gaming devices, though specific details of these enhancements were not immediately available. The preview release allows developers and advanced users to test the new functionality before a wider rollout.

SteamOS serves as Valve's Linux-based operating system designed specifically for gaming, powering devices like the Steam Deck handheld console. The expansion of third-party hardware support could signal Valve's intent to compete more broadly with other gaming platforms and operating systems.