SteamOS, found on the Steam Deck and other compatible devices, utilizes a locked filesystem. This design means that installing additional software requires a specific approach. This guide provides a straightforward explanation of the process.
Unlike conventional Linux distributions such as Ubuntu, system-wide package installations are not performed. This is because the operating system files are protected and are overwritten during system updates.
SteamOS natively supports Flatpak, a universal Linux packaging system compatible with various Linux distributions. By default, SteamOS integrates with Flathub, which serves as its primary repository for Flatpak applications. Users can browse Flathub directly to see available software, even when not on their SteamOS device, and then install desired applications.
To activate the on-screen keyboard on a Steam Deck, press STEAM + X.
To begin, switch your SteamOS system to Desktop Mode. This can be done through the Power menu. The following images illustrate this process on a Steam Deck running SteamOS 3.6:
A shortcut labeled “Return to Gaming Mode” will be present on the Desktop, allowing for an easy return to the primary Steam Gaming Mode interface.
After entering Desktop Mode, locate the Discover application. Access the desktop menu by tapping the button in the bottom left corner to find it:
The Discover application might also be visible as a blue shopping bag icon on the bottom taskbar.
Applications installed in Desktop Mode require manual updates through the Discover app. These updates do not occur automatically when in Gaming Mode, so regular checks are recommended. The example below illustrates numerous pending updates within Desktop Mode.
The updates section may display multiple packages, some with identical names. These represent essential runtime updates that ensure the continued functionality of installed applications.
Before searching for new software, it is advisable to confirm that Flathub is enabled. The settings page should appear as follows:
The system is now ready for software installation.
Within Discover, users can search for desired applications, which are sourced from Flathub. The example demonstrates searching for and installing the classic game, Space Cadet Pinball. Upon selecting an application, the “Install” button is located in the top right corner.
After installation, the “Install” button transforms into a “Launch” button.
To access applications installed in Desktop Mode from the main SteamOS Gaming Mode, a simple process is involved. Locate the application in the bottom left app menu, hover over it, and then right-click to select “Add to Steam.”
Once this action is completed and Gaming Mode is re-entered, the application will appear in the “Non-Steam” section of the Steam Library. Navigate to the Library and select “Non-Steam” from the top menu.
SteamOS also supports AppImage files. If an application or game designed for Linux systems offers an AppImage for download (typically named “Title.AppImage”), it can also be utilized. The specific steps for using AppImages may vary for each application.
