Valve has rolled out "initial" gamepad support in SteamOS for several new handheld gaming PCs, including the MSI Claw 8 EX AI+, as it continues extending its Linux-based operating system beyond the Steam Deck. The move is part of Valve's broader push to make SteamOS a viable alternative to Windows on rival handhelds, giving manufacturers and players more choice of firmware while Valve works towards a fuller, more polished rollout.

The support is described as an early-stage implementation, meaning functionality may still be limited or require further refinement before it matches the experience found on Valve's own hardware. The MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ is named as one of the devices gaining this initial compatibility, reflecting growing third-party adoption of SteamOS as handheld makers look to offer it as an option alongside Windows.