Daily brief   for adults 50+ Subscribe AM & PM email
50 Plus HubEverything for Everyone 50+
Customize My age is in the: 50s 60s 70s 80+ Text size Language
‹ Back to Breaking News
technology

AMD Releases Linux Patch to Improve Gaming Performance on Steam Deck

Wednesday, July 29, 2026 · 1 sources

AMD has released a new Linux patch that improves low-end gaming performance on the Steam Deck. The patch brings a significant boost in frame rates, particularly in EPP mode.

AMD has introduced a new Linux patch designed to enhance gaming performance on the Steam Deck. This update focuses on improving efficiency in EPP (Energy Performance Preference) mode, which is crucial for maintaining smooth gameplay on less powerful hardware. As a result of this patch, users can expect to see a notable increase in performance, especially in terms of frame rates. The improvement is most evident in the '1% low' frame rates, which have seen a jump of approximately 32%. This means that even in the most demanding moments of a game, the frame rate will remain higher, providing a better gaming experience. The patch is expected to benefit users of the Steam Deck, a handheld gaming device that relies on Linux for its operation. By enhancing the efficiency of EPP mode, AMD aims to ensure that gamers can enjoy their favorite titles without significant drops in performance. The update underscores the ongoing efforts by AMD to optimize its drivers for better compatibility and performance with Linux-based systems.

Go Deeper

What is EPP mode?

EPP stands for Energy Performance Preference, a mode that balances energy consumption and performance in AMD systems. It's designed to provide the best possible performance while considering power efficiency.

How does the patch improve gaming performance?

The patch improves efficiency in EPP mode, leading to higher frame rates. This is particularly noticeable in the '1% low' frame rates, which have increased by about 32%.

What is the Steam Deck?

The Steam Deck is a handheld gaming device developed by Valve Corporation. It runs on a Linux-based operating system and is designed to play games from the Steam library.

Is the patch available for all Linux users?

The patch is specifically aimed at improving performance on the Steam Deck, but it may also benefit other Linux users with AMD hardware. However, the primary focus is on enhancing the gaming experience on the Steam Deck.

How can I install the new patch?

The installation process for the patch should be straightforward. Users can typically update their AMD drivers through the operating system's update mechanism or by downloading the latest drivers from AMD's official website.