SteamosSteamOS encounters the "Starting Update Downloads..." prompt on a PC.
SteamosSteamOS encounters the "Starting Update Downloads..." prompt on a PC.
The instructions mention using a nightly build of steamos and note that some devices struggle with updates during the first run. It suggests trying a different distribution like Bazzite. SteamOS isn't officially available on PC hardware, and support is mainly limited to SteamDeck and other third-party handhelds. Support could change after new hardware releases, and if not, Steam may stop releasing SteamOS for PC entirely.
I noticed that too. It might be worth checking the reasons behind the compatibility issues with SteamOS Stable, and see if there are any solutions available.
Access the terminal and execute journalctl with the specified filter to capture kernel-level events.
I have a TTY connection ready. I'll attempt to log in and execute the command again when I'm back. I'm currently pausing; results will become clear later.
I’d likely end here since the setup isn’t supported and you’re using an SSD instead of a HDD. If you switched to Steam, it should still function. I’d also consider installing SteamOS directly, then adding Steam, but that carries some risk. I’d go with one of these paths: switch OS like Bazzite, start with a base distro and install Steam afterward. Alternatively, buy SteamOS and keep it going—low risk, just in case future updates affect your PC. The updates in Steam are safe for Steam Deck, though they might break your system over time. I usually use Bazzite with Steam mode, which lets me update via Steam’s built-in process. My main concern is keeping the OS up to date without risking my hardware. Good luck!
I handled the situation. ...With some limitations. I needed the nightly build from the custom script creator to resolve that problem. It then indicates there are updates available on the Beta branch, but installing them still triggers the same error. For now, I’m disregarding it. If I need an update later, I might have to install manually using a new installation medium. Two small issues, one more significant than the other. First, KDE’s “Devices” menu doesn’t list any mass media devices—no USB sticks or Android devices appear—but they show up in the file manager. The bigger concern is the inability to return to Game Mode; clicking the desktop icon has no effect. After digging, I found that the command “steamosctl return-to-game-mode” isn’t available; the only option is a full reboot. Interestingly, the Steam Deck version of SteamOS uses qdbus instead—maybe that works better? I’m not sure. I’m okay with restarting, but it would be better to skip the full reboot if possible. So far, that’s the situation. If I encounter this again, I’ll revisit this discussion.