Valve has rolled out a new Steam Deck update that introduces a highly requested feature: Display-Off Downloads, allowing users to continue downloading games and updates while the screen is turned off. Designed to conserve power and reduce heat during idle periods, this new low-power mode ensures all active downloads are completed before the device goes to sleep. The feature is enabled by default when the Steam Deck is plugged in, but users can also manually activate it on battery power through the Settings > Power menu.
When downloads are active, pressing the power button now triggers a new dialog box that lets players choose whether to continue downloading with the screen off. Alternatively, if the device remains idle for a set period, it will automatically enter this new low-power state. Steam Deck will still display a lightweight progress screen if a button is pressed or moved while in this mode, showing current download status without fully waking the device. For users downloading on battery, the Deck will switch to full sleep mode if charge levels drop below 20%.
Full Feature Details
New Feature: Display-Off Downloads
- Description: Steam Deck can now finish active downloads in a low-power mode with the screen turned off.
- Default Setting:
- Automatically enabled when plugged into power.
- Can be enabled on battery power via Settings > Power.
- Activation Options:
- While downloading, press the Power button to bring up a dialog asking if you want to continue downloading with the display off.
- Automatically engages after an idle timeout period when the system detects ongoing downloads.
- Status Display:
- Pressing any button or moving the Deck during this mode brings up a compact download status screen.
- Users can choose to wake the device fully or allow it to continue downloading in the background.
- Battery Safety:
- When running on battery, Steam Deck will automatically enter full sleep mode if the battery falls below 20%.
Availability:
- The Display-Off Download Mode feature is currently available for testing in both the Beta and Preview channels.
The Steam Deck, developed by Valve Corporation, continues to evolve through frequent updates that refine both performance and user convenience. Powered by SteamOS and a custom AMD APU, it offers the flexibility of PC gaming in a handheld format, with support for both traditional controller inputs and full Linux-based desktop functionality. Its blend of portability and power has made it one of the most versatile gaming devices on the market.
Have you tried the new display-off download feature? Share your impressions in the comments!
