The main problem is that they all kind of do their own layer on top. But they’re hardware companies, not software companies, so it ends up being a bit janky. And since they’re on Windows, users expect to be able to do Windows thing, which makes everything even more janky because it’s trying to do too much.
I think that’s why Steam Deck worked out. Valve is a SW company, already had a start with Big Picture Mode, and they didn’t need to make desktop Linux a first-class citizen. It’s there, but it’s not right in front of you like it is with Windows handhelds, so the experience can be super focused.
If these handheld companies teamed up and made a common UX across their devices, perhaps it would’ve worked out better.
Good to hear! My main gripe with steamdeck alternatives is that steam os is just so much better than whatever goofy flavor if windows they ship in.
The main problem is that they all kind of do their own layer on top. But they’re hardware companies, not software companies, so it ends up being a bit janky. And since they’re on Windows, users expect to be able to do Windows thing, which makes everything even more janky because it’s trying to do too much.
I think that’s why Steam Deck worked out. Valve is a SW company, already had a start with Big Picture Mode, and they didn’t need to make desktop Linux a first-class citizen. It’s there, but it’s not right in front of you like it is with Windows handhelds, so the experience can be super focused.
If these handheld companies teamed up and made a common UX across their devices, perhaps it would’ve worked out better.