Steam beta update adds a new Big Picture view, screensavers, and a little treat for desktop Steam Machines
Valve’s latest Steam beta update introduces a cleaner Big Art view, customizable screensavers, and improved Proton tracking for SteamOS devices and Big Picture Mode.
Valve has released a substantial Steam client beta update featuring a new 'Big Art' view for the home screen, replacing news and recommendations with a streamlined display of game artwork. This option is available in both Big Picture Mode and SteamOS Gaming Mode on devices like the Steam Deck or Steam Machine. The update also adds a built-in screensaver that cycles through game art or personal screenshots by default, with an option to include custom images via file directory adjustments.
The screensaver feature includes preset options such as a retro-style bouncing Steam logo, while Valve notes users can add their own custom screensavers through manual file directory changes. The update includes practical improvements for SteamOS devices, such as displaying the active Proton version directly in a game’s Properties menu under the Compatibility tab. Previously, users had to navigate a sub-option to check this information, making it easier to test different compatibility tools like Experimental or Proton GE versions.
A new toggle has been added to force SteamOS to boot into Desktop Mode by default, addressing a long-standing request for users employing Steam Machines as traditional desktop PCs. This feature may also benefit Steam Deck users who need to install non-native software more efficiently. The update reflects ongoing refinements to Steam’s interface and functionality for SteamOS users.
The beta update is currently available to all users and can be accessed through the desktop app’s Settings > Interface > Client Beta Participation or SteamOS’s Settings > System > Beta Participation. Valve typically moves significant beta features to the stable branch after testing, though no timeline for this transition has been specified.