steam machines are back SteamOS 3.7 brings Valve’s gaming OS to other handhelds and generic AMD PCs Focus is currently on AMD-based PCs with hardware similar to the Steam Deck. Andrew Cunningham – May 23, 2025 11:28 am | 29 Credit: Valve Credit: Valve Story text Size Small Standard Large Width * Standard Wide Links Standard Orange * Subscribers only   Learn more Valve is releasing version 3.7 of SteamOS to the general public, and among the routine updates and changes is a big one: This is the SteamOS release that finally adds official support for some kinds of PC hardware other than Valve's own Steam Deck. Valve mentions certain specific handhelds as having either "official" or "improved support," including the Asus ROG Ally, the Lenovo Legion Go, and the Lenovo Legion Go S. It also includes directions for configuring the original Legion Go and ROG Ally for SteamOS installation. But Valve says that only the Steam Deck and Legion Go S have fully baked SteamOS support. The release claims to run on "other AMD powered handhelds" more broadly, implying that most third-party handheld PCs with Ryzen Z1 or Z2-series processors ought to support at least some basic functionality. Other all-AMD desktops and laptops have a decent shot at being supported, too. It was previously possible to get a SteamOS-like experience on third-party hardware using a community-maintained distribution like Bazzite, but at least some hardware will now be able to get SteamOS right from the source. This update comes just a couple of weeks after Valve announced a new "SteamOS Compatible" label for games that would be displayed separately from Steam Deck compatibility information. AMD-only, for now If you want there to be a chance that your desktop or laptop will work with SteamOS, it will have to be all-AMD on the inside. Credit: Andrew Cunningham To try SteamOS on your hardware, Valve's two hard-and-fast requirements are "AMD hardware" and an NVMe SSD. The hardware requirement likely refers to, collectively, the CPU, GPU, and chipset, and possibly also the RZ-series Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules that are often paired with AMD systems. You'll also need to disable Secure Boot on your PC. This is normally enabled by default since it's an installation requirement for Windows 11, so you'll want to refer to your manufacturer's documentation to figure out how to turn it off. Valve's instructions will walk you through downloading a SteamOS recovery image and copying it to a USB drive using either the Rufus tool (on Windows) or Balena Etcher (the preferred macOS and Linux utility). After turning Secure Boot off, you should be able to boot from the USB drive and install SteamOS as you would on a regular Steam Deck. Note that there's no simple, officially supported way to dual-boot SteamOS and Windows; if you decide to turn your handheld, laptop, or desktop into a new Steam Machine, the only way to make it back into a Windows PC is to re-enable Secure Boot and install a fresh copy from another USB drive. The SteamOS 3.7 update (officially, version 3.7.8) also includes a bunch of other updates to the underlying software: version 6.11 of the Linux kernel (up from version 6.5 in SteamOS 3.6), "a newer Arch Linux base," version 6.2.5 of the Plasma interface in desktop mode, new Mesa graphics drivers, and various other tweaks and bug fixes. A second act for SteamOS The original version of SteamOS was designed to be widely compatible with all kinds of PC hardware and was available both from major PC manufacturers and as a standalone OS that you could (and which we did) install on custom, self-built PCs. But these computers and that version of SteamOS mostly flopped, at least in part because they only ran a small subset of games that natively supported Linux. The current version of SteamOS launched with more modest aims as the first-party operating system for a single piece of hardware. But by focusing on the game compatibility problem first and leading the way with category-defining hardware, Valve has actually built a much stronger foundation for the current version of SteamOS than it did for the original. That doesn't make SteamOS a drop-in replacement for Windows—without strong support for Intel or Nvidia hardware, it's not a great candidate for the majority of gaming PCs, or even Intel-powered gaming handhelds like the MSI Claw A1M. And Windows is set up to be a multi-purpose general-use operating system in ways that SteamOS isn't; Valve still says that, despite the presence of desktop mode, "users should not consider SteamOS as a replacement for their desktop operating system." But for certain kinds of systems that are primarily used as gaming PCs, SteamOS is a real contender. Andrew Cunningham Senior Technology Reporter Andrew Cunningham Senior Technology Reporter Andrew is a Senior Technology Reporter at Ars Technica, with a focus on consumer tech including computer hardware and in-depth reviews of operating systems like Windows and macOS. Andrew lives in Philadelphia and co-hosts a weekly book podcast called Overdue. 29 Comments

The Belkin division responsible for developing the excellent Phyn Plus smart water shut-off valve has been acquired by an investor group led by contractor and TV personality Jonathan Scott (HGTV’s Property Brothers). The announcement is the latest sign that Belkin, which brought the Phyn Plus to market back in 2018, is rapidly losing interest in developing new smart home products following its own acquisition by Foxconn. Belkin has already discontinued many of its Wemo-brand smart home products, and it “paused” its efforts to develop Matter-compatible products in early 2023. We’ve praised both the first- and second-generation Phyn Plus devices for their ability to not only warn homeowners of leaky or burst pipes, but to automatically take action to shut off a home’s main water supply to prevent the catastrophic damage that can result. In an exclusive telephone interview with Scott and Phyn CEO Ryan Kim late last week, Scott described himself as a “technology nut” and expressed his admiration for the Phyn Plus, which he said he’d previously installed in his own home as well as in a guest house and in his parents’ home. Celebrity contractor and TV personality Jonathan Scott is leading a group of investors buying Phyn from Foxconn’s Belkin.Scott Brothers Global “One of the benefits of being on the air for as long as we have is that when something feels ‘off’ to me, I have to dig in. My brother [Drew Scott] once spent $3,000 to put in a water leak-detection system in his own home, but if it detected a leak and shut off your water, you had to be there to turn it back on. There was nothing like Phyn at the time.” Asked why more consumers haven’t already installed products like the Phyn Plus, Scott replied “Sometimes you can tell people all the benefits in the world that a product has to offer, but they still don’t see the value.” Scott continued: “People hate to spend money on what they don’t see, but eliminating the risk of a flood [caused by a pinhole leak or a burst pipe] is so worth it. [My family has] already recouped 10 times the value of the Phyn devices we’ve installed just based on the kids leaving the tap on or a toilet handle getting stuck. The Phyn Plus is one of the greatest kept secrets that no one knows about.” The Phyn Plus leak detection and smart water shut-off valve also tracks household water consumption patterns.Michael Brown/Foundry Phyn CEO Ryan Kim said the acquisition “will unlock not only massive awareness in the consumer space but also increased adoption by the insurance industry.” Given the average cost of a water damage claim stemming from a leaking or burst pipe is around $12,500, many insurance companies already offer policy discounts to homeowners who install water leak detections systems with smart shut-off valves, such as the Phyn Plus and Moen Flo. Scott believes the insurance industry will eventually move beyond just offering homeowners incentives to install such products. “I think in a matter of years,” he said, “all insurance companies will require this type of leak detection and smart water shut-off [as a condition of coverage].” Phyn has revenue streams beyond selling its hardware, according to Kim. “Phyn is not just a hardware company.” he said “It’s also a data company. There’s value in the data we’ve collected from the 2.5 billion [water-related] events we’ve collected. The data is anonymized—we don’t track individual homes—but we can see trends on a regional basis, which can help insurance companies and utilities understand trends to offer better services. It’s exciting for me that this powerhouse group came together.” In addition to Scott, the investor group acquiring Phyn includes Intuit founder and Quicken developer Tom Proulx, who will serve as an advisor and board member; Silicon Valley venture capitalist and Microsoft board member David F. Marquardt; and Allen Sands, founder of Icon Builders, a construction company focused on renovating affordable housing. A source has told us the deal is worth “up to $24.9 million U.S. dollars.”

Cross-Section Member Oct 27, 2017 7,018 aka Steam Deck "easier to sneak into work" edition lol I do love my OLED Steam Deck, I use it for some of the less demanding games in my library, but sometimes I really do wish it was something I could just whip out of my pocket like one of the many retro handhelds in the marketplace currently. Obviously, the chief sticking point is the hardware. Would it be possible for Valve to fit the current Zen 2 APU inside a smaller form factor without compromising on performance or usability? Which feature would you be fine dropping in exchange for the ability to truly play your games on the go?  808s & Villainy Member Oct 27, 2017 46,640 Seems like a waste. Steam Deck has only sold a few million total. For Valve it's just an avenue to allow people to play some of their games on a handheld. I don't think having multiple SKUs is worth the effort for them   TimPV3 Member Oct 30, 2017 702 Does anyone else remember in 2004 when people thought the PSP was going to be too big? 😂   Squirrel09 Member Nov 4, 2017 1,911 I don't think valve will make a mini-steam deck. But I do think that we'll get some 3rd party Retroid pocket 5 sized machines that either run windows or steam OS here in the next couple years. Won't be super powerful, but would be good for smaller indies/emulation  PlanetSmasher The Abominable Showman Member Oct 25, 2017 132,801 I don't see how you reduce the form factor without cutting into performance. I don't think there's any real benefit there.   steviestar3 One Winged Slayer Member Jul 3, 2018 5,450 It'd be cool but it wouldn't make financial sense at the moment, no.   Imran Member Oct 24, 2017 8,838 I think if it were a significantly more mainstream machine with an appeal to kids, maybe. But it's a niche machine for adults, most of whom would not rush out to justify the extra production line and R&D on such a thing.   Vanguard Member Jan 15, 2025 592 Yes, it would be easier for kids to hold.   Bardeh Member Jun 15, 2018 3,833 No. Would likely take a decent amount of R+D that I'd prefer they put into other things.   Jamesac68 Member Oct 27, 2017 3,195 If people want it, sure. I don't, but somebody might. I ended up no longer using my Switch once the Steam Deck showed up because the bigger screen is just so much easier on my eyes. I'm actually looking forward to doing some catch-up once the Switch 2 hits, roughly the same size as the Steam Deck.   Roubjon Member Oct 25, 2017 3,083 Yes. I got carpal tunnel from the current model due to its size.   Dota322 Member Aug 13, 2024 86 They will once Arm Translation mature enough   PlanetSmasher The Abominable Showman Member Oct 25, 2017 132,801 Vanguard said: Yes, it would be easier for kids to hold. Click to expand... Click to shrink... Kids want a Nintendo, not a Steam Deck. What is the demographic for kids who want a portable console but don't want access to Mario and Fortnite?  LuciaDMC Member Oct 27, 2017 9,232 Bengali Yes that is my biggest request. Make the touchpads smaller, and make it lighter somehow. Also don't need 4 buttons at back, 2 is enough.  Sabin Member Oct 25, 2017 6,096 No. The deck already has too many SKUs imo and more SKUs.  cw_sasuke Member Oct 27, 2017 29,972 I dont think they can justify a niche revision of a somewhat niche device at that price point. It would be cool but i think they would put these resources behind other products.  Tobor Died as he lived: wrong about Doritos Member Oct 25, 2017 34,023 If they are going to make another model, it should be a box. As a handheld they have the right size.   Fallout-NL Member Oct 30, 2017 8,360 Nope.   Vanguard Member Jan 15, 2025 592 PlanetSmasher said: Kids want a Nintendo, not a Steam Deck. What is the demographic for kids who want a portable console but don't want access to Mario and Fortnite? Click to expand... Click to shrink... Kids like to play different games. There are lots of games that kids see streamers playing like Zort that aren't available on Switch, and they want to play what they see. Teardown and People Playground are other examples and the Steam Deck has easy mod support for both of these with Steam Workshop.  Lumination Member Oct 26, 2017 16,013 I don't think there's a market for two distinct sizes, but the next one should be smaller IMO. This thing is freaking unwieldy, and I have big hands. Reminds me vaguely of holding the Duke in the 2000s. And it's heavy as shit for long sessions.   thewienke Member Oct 25, 2017 19,288 I'm more interested in a faster pro version with a bigger and better screen with less backlight bleed and larger hand grips. Something like the Portal. I've never played the Steamdeck away from a wall outlet personally  StrangerDanger Member Jul 18, 2018 6,696 Lumination said: I don't think there's a market for two distinct sizes, but the next one should be smaller IMO. This thing is freaking unwieldy, and I have big hands. Reminds me vaguely of holding the Duke in the 2000s. And it's heavy as shit for long sessions. Click to expand... Click to shrink... If they went the Nintendo route and had detachable sticks, then it would be fine.   ramenline Member Jan 9, 2019 1,670 It would be cool, but I think you'll have to rely on things like the Ayaneo Air to fill that niche for small PC handhelds for now.   Mocha Joe Member Jun 2, 2021 13,413 I would love Steam Deck 2 to be even smaller and lighter. LCD was really uncomfortable due to the weight but the OLED made it tolerable. I still love using it though. Greatest handheld ever   Cipher Peon One Winged Slayer Member Oct 25, 2017 9,649 Yeah I think the Steam Deck is way too big. I'd like it to fit in my pocket, please.  BeansBeansBeans Member Jan 14, 2025 986 I'd love to buy a smaller deck for my son. He is 7 and loves games, but the deck is simply too big.   GravaGravity Member Oct 27, 2017 4,704 One way or another society will always return to the PS Vita   JetstreamRorschach One Winged Slayer Member Dec 30, 2017 2,153 Zaragoza, Spain. Not feasible. Steam Deck is very performant due to it being an absolutely inefficient laptop class x86 SoC on a big handheld casing. They are very energy consuming and need a whole lot of active cooling (the LCD Deck's back usually burns to the touch and the fan makes a lot of noise). Not all GPU and CPU architectures are compatible with all foundries. You'd either sacrifice performance to the point it isn't a Steam Deck anymore or get a smaller handheld with lower battery and hotter thermals than the original.   DieH@rd Member Oct 26, 2017 12,017 I would be fine with same case as DS1 [and same 7.4" OLED, only 120hz and with VRR].   CesareNorrez Member Oct 25, 2017 6,054 My wife didn't like playing on the Deck handheld at all until I got her one of those gaming pillows (the arm mount one from Mechanism). It is simply too large and heavy for extended use. So, in that regard, a smaller lighter version would be great. But I'm not sure if Valve sees any financial sense in it. Maybe when they do a Deck 2 they introduce a Deck Lite that matches the power specs of the original.   mattycubed Member Dec 12, 2021 289 My crushed hands say yes, my heart says no   Dekuman Member Oct 27, 2017 21,021 Steam Deck is tied to whatever APU AMD produces. Unlike a console, it's very unlikey they will take that old chip and shrink it down. That's a huge expense for a niche product. Die shrink is where you get your thermal headroom to go smaller. Granted, Valve can probably get deck-like performance from a more modern chip by downclocking it, and shipping it in a smaller form factor. But if they are designing with a new chip in mind, that would be a deck 2.  Apollo Corrupted by Vengeance Avenger Oct 25, 2017 10,053 I mean if they could, and it had a OLED model, I would absolutely get it Day 1. I use my Steam Deck a whole lot. But it is too big for me. If it was even slightly smaller it would be a huge improvement for me.   Sai Prophet of Truth The Fallen Oct 25, 2017 6,987 Chicago No, it's tiny enough.   iswasdoes Member Nov 13, 2017 3,330 Londinium Cant wait to see what Valve have in store hardware wise. I do see a deck 2 in the near future. Deck mini, less likely I think but I would like one   Bran Member Oct 25, 2017 540 For what it's trying to do, I can't see anything smaller working quite as well. The ergonomics, input options (trackpads), and screen are a core part of its appeal. Reduce or remove any of that, and you risk compromising functionality. It's already difficult enough to read text in some games. Making a flatter, tinier, more transportable machine that plays fewer games seems like a hard sell—you'd be better off with a different device.   J_ToSaveTheDay "This guy are sick" and Corrupted by Vengeance Avenger Oct 25, 2017 22,527 USA Nah, I don't personally think it stands to make much sense business wise for them. I say that as someone who would very likely be interested… but as someone who is generally interested in smaller form factor electronics—it hasn't seemed like audiences are there for them anymore.   Sabin Member Oct 25, 2017 6,096 Bran said: For what it's trying to do, I can't see anything smaller working quite as well. The ergonomics, input options (trackpads), and screen are a core part of its appeal. Reduce or remove any of that, and you risk compromising functionality. It's already difficult enough to read text in some games. Click to expand... Click to shrink... Exactly. There are also already enough smaller pc handhelds available that already cater that niche while steam deck is the device to offer great ergonomics.  Kaworu Member Oct 28, 2017 433 I don't care much about power. Give me a Steam Deck Lite to play indie titles with a decent battery life.   Ouroboros Member Oct 27, 2017 16,111 But the ergonomics are so good!! I'd hate to use a smaller version.   Adam_Roman Member Oct 25, 2017 3,399 I think this is something they're at least thinking about. Last year there was a lot of work happening on an ARM translation layer for Steam. While it's probably immediately for something like their Deckard VR headset, it would also be very lucrative for ARM-based handhelds to run SteamOS, like an Odin 2 or a Retroid.   BeansBeansBeans Member Jan 14, 2025 986 Bran said: For what it's trying to do, I can't see anything smaller working quite as well. The ergonomics, input options (trackpads), and screen are a core part of its appeal. Reduce or remove any of that, and you risk compromising functionality. It's already difficult enough to read text in some games. Making a flatter, tinier, more transportable machine that plays fewer games seems like a hard sell—you'd be better off with a different device. Click to expand... Click to shrink... I think that we will see some good options once Steam OS gets licensed more and more. I feel like the ergonomics could still work. Also I don't think i've ever once used the touch pads.  horkrux Member Oct 27, 2017 6,467 TimPV3 said: Does anyone else remember in 2004 when people thought the PSP was going to be too big? 😂 Click to expand... Click to shrink... That's crazy  closer Member Oct 25, 2017 5,580 gamers and their concern with their deck size smh   Regular Sega Fan Member Jul 22, 2022 1,825 Ally X + Steam OS could work I guess   BeI Member Dec 9, 2017 6,804 Probably not. Leave that up to third party SteamOS devices to handle. If first party Steam hardware covers everything too well, there wouldn't be much reason for third party SteamOS devices to exist.   FakePlasticTree Member Jul 24, 2018 13,995 The next Steam Deck should be a new hardware leap anything else seems like a waste.   thecaseace Member May 1, 2018 3,743 Yes they should. I get it, most Steam Deck users love everything about Valves machine, but the numbers show that even amongst the 'core' audience there's people like myself that think it's too large. The Steam Deck and Switch are both handhelds but only the Switch is truly portable. They could make a sound mainstream play if they found a way to drop the touch pads and make the device smaller. It would make a great additional SKU.  KalBalboa Member Oct 30, 2017 9,717 Massachusetts TimPV3 said: Does anyone else remember in 2004 when people thought the PSP was going to be too big? 😂 Click to expand... Click to shrink... Oh yeah, I remember friends in high school giving the 16x9 screen some side-eye, haha.  Siri Member Nov 7, 2017 1,367 I think we're more likely going to get x86 to ARM translation to a decent state than Valve releasing a smaller Steam Deck. In fact, it's one of the reasons I've just got a Retroid Pocket Mini V2 in the post. Even in their infancy, I think Winlator and/or MiceWine should handle some lighter stuff. Of course, the floodgates will open as and when Steam really does set up a flavour of Proton for ARM and you can just have Steam on your phone, but for now trying to get the likes of Project Diablo 2 and Outrun 2006 C2C running should be a fun thing. 

Inside Boston Children’s Hospital, 3D printing and digital planning are “transforming” pediatric care. The 156-year-old institution uses Materialise’s Mimics software to turn two-dimensional patient scans into detailed 3D models, streamlining preoperative planning and enhancing surgical outcomes.    Dr. David Hoganson, a pediatric cardiac surgeon at the Massachusetts-based health center, called 3D technology a “total game-changer” for clinicians. Speaking at the Materialise 3D Printing in Hospitals Forum 2025, he outlined his role in leading the hospital’s Cardiovascular 3D Modelling and Simulation Program. Mimics has become part of routine care at Boston Children’s Benderson Family Heart Center. Since 2018, the Program’s engineers and clinicians have created over 1,600 patient-specific 3D models. Last year alone, the team made 483 models, which accounted for about 50% of its Operating Room surgical cases.     During Materialise’s healthcare forum, I spoke with Dr. Hoganson about his unique path from biomedical engineering to clinical practice. The Temple University graduate outlined how 3D modeling is no longer a futuristic add-on but an essential tool transforming the precision and planning of modern surgery. He revealed the tangible benefits of Mimics modelling versus traditional medical imaging, emphasizing how intraoperative 3D planning can reduce heart surgery complications by up to 87%. Looking to the future of healthcare, Dr. Hoganson discussed the need for more seamless clinical integration, validation, and financial reimbursement to increase adoption.    Dr. David Hoganson speaking at the Materialise 3D Printing in Hospitals Forum 2025. Photo via Materialise. From the factory floor to the operating theater When Dr. Hoganson began his career, it wasn’t in an operating room but on the factory floor. He started as a biomedical engineer, developing cardiovascular medical devices for two years, before transitioning to medicine.  This pedigree has been instrumental in shaping Boston Children’s 3D Modeling and Simulation Program, which was co-founded by University of New Hampshire Mechanical Engineering graduate Dr. Peter Hammer. The team has grown to include 17 engineers and one clinical nurse. “It has been an engineering-focused effort from the beginning,” explained Dr. Hoganson. He emphasized that the team prioritizes using “advanced engineering analysis” to plan and conduct ultra-precise operations.  Dr. Hoganson believes this engineering focus challenges the structured nature of clinical medicine. “The mindset of medicine is much more focused on doing things the way we were taught,” he explains. In contrast, engineering embraces constant iteration, creating space for innovation and rethinking established practices. He argued that engineers are not “held back by the way medicine has always been done,” which makes them an invaluable asset in clinical settings. When engineers deeply understand clinical challenges and apply their analytical skills, they often uncover solutions that physicians may not have considered, he added. These range from optimized surgical workflows to entirely new approaches to preoperative planning. For Dr. Hoganson, the “secret sauce” lies in collaboration and ensuring “zero distance between the engineers and the problem.” Dr. David Hoganson speaking at the Materialise 3D Printing in Hospitals Forum 2025. Photo via Materialise. 3D printing and digital planning enhance surgical outcomes  In pediatric cardiac surgery, speed matters. According to Dr. Hoganson, this is why digital 3D modeling takes priority in pre-operative planning and intraoperative guidance. Materialise’s Mimics software streamlines this process. Users can import CT and MRI data, which is automatically transformed into detailed, interactive 3D models. Surgeons can then run simulations and apply computational fluid dynamics to forecast the most effective treatment strategies. Boston Children’s 3D simulation lead described these capabilities as offering “tremendous benefits” beyond what traditional imaging alone can provide. Traditional scans are viewed in stacks of two-dimensional slices. Whereas, Mimics 3D models offer virtual segmentation, interior views, and precise spatial mapping. Dr. Hoganson called this a “difference maker” and “totally transformational” for surgeons.  Dr. Hoganson’s team uses this technology to perform a range of complex cardiovascular repairs, such as reconstructing aortic and mitral valves, closing ventricular septal defects (VSDs), and augmenting blood vessels, including pulmonary arteries and aortas. Materialise Mimics’ value is not limited to preoperative preparation. It also guides surgical procedures. During operations, clinicians can interact with the models using repurposed gaming controllers, allowing them to explore and isolate anatomical features in the operating theater.  One key breakthrough has been identifying and mapping the heart’s electrical system, which governs its rhythm. By integrating 3D modelling into intraoperative planning, surgeons have significantly reduced the risk of heart block, where electrical signals are delayed as they pass through the organ. With the help of Mimics software, incidence rates have fallen from 40% to as low as 5% in some cases.      Given the advantages of digital modelling, surgeons might be tempted to sideline physical 3D printing altogether. However, Dr. Hoganson insists additive manufacturing remains vital to refining surgical workflows. His team conducts a “tremendous amount of 3D printing,” creating patient-specific anatomical models, mostly with a resin-based Formlabs system. These models allow clinicians to test and validate plans in the lab before donning their scrubs. Boston Children’s has sharpened its surgical edge by using materials that closely replicate the mechanical properties of target tissues. This allows the team to 3D print anatomical models tailored to each child’s size, age, and physical makeup. For instance, Dr. Hoganson’s team can fabricate neonatal-sized aortas and pulmonary arteries that replicate the texture and elasticity of an infant’s vessels. Developed over several years, this approach enables accurate simulation of complex procedures, such as patch enlargement of pulmonary arteries. The team conducts rigorous preclinical testing by combining anatomical precision with lifelike tissue mechanics.  Dr. Hoganson explained that in-depth testing is crucial for refining techniques, reducing surgical risk, and minimizing complications in pediatric patients. This, in turn, slashes healthcare costs as fewer children spend extended time in the ICU following procedures. 3D planning and simulation empower surgeons to “do things right the first time, so we can reduce those reinterventions and complications,” Dr. Hoganson added.         Dr. David Hoganson demonstrating cardiovascular 3D models at the Materialise 3D Printing in Hospitals Forum 2025. Photo by 3D Printing Industry. Overcoming challenges to adoption in hospitals    What key challenges are limiting clinical adoption of 3D technology? For Dr. Hoganson, cost remains a critical barrier. “Having the efforts reimbursed will be a very important piece of this,” he explained. “That enables teams to grow and have the manpower to do it,” when 3D planning is clinically necessary. In the US, medical reimbursement involves a long path to approval. But progress is being made. His team has started billing successfully for some aspects of the work, marking an “encouraging start” toward broader systemic change. Adoption also hinges on easier integration into existing workflows. Dr. Hoganson noted that if 3D technology adds efforts and time to procedures, it won’t be chosen over existing methods. Therefore, “the more streamlined you can make the whole process for the physician, the more likely they are to adopt it.”  In response to these demands, Boston Children’s 3D Modelling and Simulation Program has designed a system that feels familiar to surgeons. “It’s not just about providing the technical aspects of the 3D model,” added Dr. Hoganson. “It’s about integrating the whole process into the clinical workflow in a way that works for the clinician.”  His team works at the center of these efforts, ensuring “there’s almost no barrier of entry to find and use the model they need.” Dr. Hoganson claims to have simplified the process to the stage where it looks and feels like regular medical care, removing the mystique and misconceptions around 3D technology. “There’s nothing special about it anymore,” he added. “That’s been a huge step towards this technology being a part of routine medical care.”   Boston Children’s integration strategy is working. The team expects to use 3D models in around 60% of heart surgeries this year. However, making 3D technology a standard of care has not been easy. Dr. Horganson said, “It has taken a very diligent effort to remove those barriers.”  In the broader tech space, 3D printing has sometimes suffered from overpromising and underdelivering, a pattern Dr. David Hoganson is keen to avoid. “We’ve tried to be extremely transparent with what is and is not being delivered,” he added. That clarity is crucial for building trust. A 3D model alone, for instance, serves a vital but defined role: enhanced visualization and preoperative measurements. Hoganson emphasized that 3D printing is not a miracle cure, but another tool in a surgeon’s toolbox.  For Boston Children’s, the future of 3D printing in healthcare lies beyond static models. Dr. Horganson believes additive manufacturing will be a basis for “taking the next step and impacting how surgery is conducted, and how precisely and perfectly it’s done the first time.” Over the next eighteen months, Dr. Hoganson’s team will double down on demonstrating how preoperative 3D modeling translates into better surgical procedures. This will include measuring outcomes from surgeries using 3D technology and assessing whether predictions have matched surgical results. He believes validating outcomes will be an “important step forward” in moving 3D modeling from supportive technology to an indispensable clinical standard. The number of patient-specific digital 3D models created annually at Boston Children’s Hospital’s Benderson Family Heart Center since 2018. Photo by 3D Printing Industry. Take the 3DPI Reader Survey – shape the future of AM reporting in under 5 minutes. Read all the 3D printing news from RAPID + TCT 2025 Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news.You can also follow us on LinkedIn, and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content.Featured image shows Dr. David Hoganson speaking at the Materialise 3D Printing in Hospitals Forum 2025. Photo via Materialise.

Key Takeaways Valve Expands SteamOS Beyond the Deck: A new Steam compatibility rating for non-Steam Deck devices signals Valve’s intent to make SteamOS a mainstream PC gaming operating system.  Windows 11 Leaves Older PCs Behind: With Windows 10 support ending in 2025 and strict hardware requirements for Windows 11, many gamers are seeking lighter, less restrictive alternatives. Proton Makes Linux Gaming Easy: Valve’s Proton layer enables most single-player Windows games to run smoothly on Linux, making SteamOS a real contender for everyday gaming. A Platform Play, Not Just a Storefront: Valve is evolving into a full-stack platform provider, offering hardware, software, and services that challenge Microsoft’s dominance in PC gaming. Valve quietly took another big step in its plan to change how we play PC games.  This week, they added a new compatibility rating for Steam games that run on devices other than the Steam Deck.  That might sound small, but it’s a big signal: Valve is gearing up to make SteamOS more than just the Deck’s operating system.  It wants SteamOS to be the go-to PC gaming OS. And with the way Windows is going, that might actually work.  SteamOS – From Side Project to Real Player When Valve launched the Steam Deck in 2022, it came with SteamOS pre-installed.  Back then, most people saw it as a Deck-only solution – a weird little Linux-based system with a funny name that made a handheld work.  But now Valve’s trying to ensure SteamOS can run on any device, not just the Deck. Think gaming laptops, desktops, mini PCs, and even other handhelds.  The new compatibility tag added to Steam will tell you how well a game works on ‘SteamOS, not on Deck’ setups.  It’s a subtle change, but Valve is ready to support players building their own Linux-based PC gaming rigs. It’s not just about hardware anymore – Valve wants to own the whole ecosystem.  Windows 11 – The OS Nobody Asked for Timing, as they say, is everything. Windows 10 is reaching end-of-life in 2025, which means no more updates unless you pay up.  And Windows 11? It’s bloated, loves telemetry, and keeps pushing users into Microsoft’s cloud services whether they want them or not. Gamers haven’t exactly embraced it.  What’s worse is that many older PCs can’t even run Windows 11 without jumping through hoops.  You’ll need a compatible TPM 2.0 chip, Secure Boot enabled, and often a relatively recent CPU.  And if your hardware doesn’t meet these strict requirements, you’ll have to mess with registry hacks or unofficial installers just to get it working.  Meanwhile, SteamOS is becoming lighter, faster, and more compatible with each update. Windows now feels bulky and overcomplicated for gaming, while SteamOS is streamlined, efficient, and built for play.  Proton Is the Secret Sauce A few years ago, gaming on Linux was like trying to ride a unicycle on a gravel road – technically possible, but mostly painful.  But Valve changed all that with Proton. It’s a compatibility layer that lets you run Windows games on Linux and performs impressively well.  Players are saying most single-player games just work. You install them, click play, and boom – you’re in. The exceptions are mainly multiplayer games that rely on invasive anti-cheat systems like the ones used in Valorant or Call of Duty.  These systems, like Riot’s Vanguard and Activision’s Ricochet, operate at the kernel level – meaning they have deep access to your computer’s core functions.  That level of control makes them harder to bypass, but also raises serious privacy concerns and often clashes with Proton, which is why these games usually won’t run on Linux.  But for indie games, RPGs, roguelikes, and story-driven titles, Proton is a dream.  So now that Proton is good enough for everyday gaming, why bother with Windows at all?  Why SteamOS Actually Makes Sense Now SteamOS isn’t just a gamer-friendly version of Linux. It’s also a great way to keep older hardware alive.  Since it’s built to run games efficiently, it doesn’t waste resources on background processes you don’t need. That means faster boot times, better performance, and less overheating.  If you’ve got a mid-range gaming PC from 2018, SteamOS might give it a second life. And in a world where GPUs are still absurdly priced and RAM isn’t getting cheaper, that’s a real win.  Plus, most non-gaming services today are cloud-based – think streaming, productivity, and communication tools – so you can access them from a browser without needing Linux-native apps. And for developers, there’s another perk. SteamOS encourages cross-platform development. If more users adopt it, game studios won’t have to rely so heavily on DirectX or other Windows-only tools.  The end result? Games that are easier to port, cheaper to maintain, and potentially more stable.  Valve is Building a Platform, not Just Selling Games For years, Valve has remained primarily a storefront. Steam was simply a place to buy games, and that was the extent of it. But now, Valve is turning into something more like Apple – a company with its own hardware (Steam Deck), its own OS (SteamOS), and its own platform (Steam). The shift toward platform ownership allows Valve to gain greater control over its ecosystem, enabling them to shape the gaming experience more directly.  This move opens up more options for gamers, giving them greater flexibility, access to a variety of services, and a wealth of content, all while allowing them to make more informed decisions throughout their gaming experience. Don’t want to use Windows anymore? Fine. Don’t want to buy a Steam Deck? That’s fine too. Build your SteamOS box, slap it under your TV, and enjoy a console-like experience with a PC gaming library.  That’s a shift Microsoft should be nervous about.  What Still Needs Work Of course, SteamOS isn’t perfect.  The biggest roadblock is still anti-cheat support. Many competitive multiplayer games don’t run on Linux because the anti-cheat software doesn’t play nice with Proton.  Until Valve solves that (and they are working on it), Windows will still be required for certain genres.  Valve has already worked with major anti-cheat providers like BattlEye and Easy Anti-Cheat to support Proton and SteamOS. Still, it’s up to individual developers to flip the switch and enable it in their games.  That’s the current bottleneck – the infrastructure exists, but adoption is slow. But there is a path forward.  If Valve can win over a few major game publishers or eSports tournaments, the floodgates might open. Imagine a world where CS:GO and Valorant run perfectly on Linux, and gamers no longer feel tied to Microsoft’s ecosystem. It’s not far-fetched.  The Big Picture So here’s the thing: Valve isn’t just building an OS. It’s building an escape route.  Gamers frustrated with Microsoft’s direction now have a real alternative – one that’s free, fast, and focused on games first. The new SteamOS compatibility rating is a small update, but it hints at a much bigger shift.  In the end, this isn’t about the Steam Deck anymore. It’s about making Linux gaming mainstream.  Valve’s not shouting about it yet. But it’s coming. And when it arrives, it won’t just change how we game – it’ll change who owns the future of gaming.  So go ahead, Windows 11. Keep adding bloatware. SteamOS will be over here doing squats, waiting to take your crown.  Anya Zhukova is an in-house tech and crypto writer at Techreport with 10 years of hands-on experience covering cybersecurity, consumer tech, digital privacy, and blockchain. She’s known for turning complex topics into clear, useful advice that regular people can actually understand and use.  Her work has been featured in top-tier digital publications including MakeUseOf, Online Tech Tips, Help Desk Geek, Switching to Mac, and Make Tech Easier. Whether she’s writing about the latest privacy tools or reviewing a new laptop, her goal is always the same: help readers feel confident and in control of the tech they use every day.  Anya holds a BA in English Philology and Translation from Tula State Pedagogical University and also studied Mass Media and Journalism at Minnesota State University, Mankato. That mix of language, media, and tech has given her a unique lens to look at how technology shapes our daily lives.  Over the years, she’s also taken courses and done research in data privacy, digital security, and ethical writing – skills she uses when tackling sensitive topics like PC hardware, system vulnerabilities, and crypto security.  Anya worked directly with brands like Framework, Insta360, Redmagic, Inmotion, Secretlab, Kodak, and Anker, reviewing their products in real-life scenarios. Her testing process involves real-world use cases – whether it's stress-testing laptops for creative workloads, reviewing the battery performance of mobile gaming phones, or evaluating the long-term ergonomics of furniture designed for hybrid workspaces.  In the world of crypto, Anya covers everything from beginner guides to deep dives into hardware wallets, DeFi protocols, and Web3 tools. She helps readers understand how to use multisig wallets, keep their assets safe, and choose the right platforms for their needs.  Her writing often touches on financial freedom and privacy – two things she strongly believes should be in everyone’s hands. Outside of writing, Anya contributes to editorial style guides focused on privacy and inclusivity, and she mentors newer tech writers on how to build subject matter expertise and write responsibly.  She sticks to high editorial standards, only recommends products she’s personally tested, and always aims to give readers the full picture.  You can find her on LinkedIn, where she shares more about her work and projects.  Key Areas of Expertise: Consumer Tech (laptops, phones, wearables, etc.) Cybersecurity and Digital Privacy PC/PC Hardware Blockchain, Crypto Wallets, and DeFi In-Depth Product Reviews and Buying Guides Whether she’s reviewing a new wallet or benchmarking a PC build, Anya brings curiosity, care, and a strong sense of responsibility to everything she writes. Her mission? To make the digital world a little easier – and safer – for everyone.  View all articles by Anya Zhukova Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors.

Handheld gaming has evolved through many phases over the years, and Valve, despite having its own hardware, is embracing more and more of it. In a recent news post, Valve announced it is expanding the Steam Deck Verified categorization system with a new SteamOS Compatibility system. This new SteamOS Compatibility system is explicitly for “any device running SteamOS that’s not a Steam Deck.” With the SteamOS-powered version of the Lenovo Legion Go S set to release in May — the first officially supported non-Steam Deck product to ship with SteamOS — Valve is preparing for SteamOS to evolve outside the Steam Deck. The SteamOS Compatibility rating intends to function on non-Steam Deck devices as a quick guide to whether or not a game is supported on SteamOS. According to the post, “This includes features like game functionality, launcher functionality, and anti-cheat support.” Games that pass these benchmarks will receive a SteamOS Compatible mark, and conversely, games that do not will receive a SteamOS Unsupported designation. Importantly, the SteamOS Compatibility rating does not test for performance, which will vary between different devices using SteamOS. Upon the launch of SteamOS Compatibility ratings, Valve expects to stamp approval for over 18,000-plus games on Steam. In addition to the green check of approval from the Steam Deck Verified system, a passing SteamOS Compatibility rating will show a blue checkmark. Users who already have a Lenovo Legion Go S or an Asus ROG Ally with the SteamOS beta should begin seeing the new compatibility ratings in the next few weeks. Going forward, when games are tested for Steam Deck ratings, they will simultaneously be tested for SteamOS Compatibility. For developers, the process is automated, with existing Steam Deck ratings utilized to assign SteamOS Compatibility ratings. In the final question of its FAQ, Valve said that “SteamOS Compatibility results will all be the same or higher than Steam Deck Verified results,” effectively meaning that if a game (supposedly) works on a Steam Deck, then it will work on other devices.