The Steam Deck, launched last year, has garnered immense popularity for its multitasking capabilities, allowing users to utilize it as a portable gaming device and a PC. However, if you plan to use the Steam Deck as a PC, you should have a web browser for web surfing. Google Chrome is a preferred choice for many due to its user-friendly interface and integrated features. The good news is that Google Chrome isn’t pre-installed on the Steam Deck, but you can easily download it. This guide will walk you through getting Google Chrome on your Steam Deck. Before we delve into the details, let’s take a closer look at the Steam Deck.
What is Steam Deck?
The Steam Deck is a portable handheld gaming computer resembling a controller with a built-in screen. It was developed by Valve and officially launched on February 25, 2022. This handheld device runs on Valve’s Linux distribution, SteamOS, which integrates the Steam storefront. SteamOS uses Valve’s Proton compatibility layer, allowing users to run Windows applications and games on the Steam Deck.
How to Download Google Chrome on Steam Deck
There are several methods to download Google Chrome on your Steam Deck. Here’s how to do it:
Method 1: (Without Desktop Mode)
This is the simplest method to download Google Chrome on your Steam Deck; thanks to Valve for making it user-friendly. It allows you to download Chrome as a non-Steam game from SteamOS.
Follow these steps to download Google Chrome on your Steam Deck:
1. Tap the Steam button on your Steam Deck and select “Library.”
2. In the Library, press R1 to navigate to the “Non-Steam” tab.
3. In the “Non-Steam Shortcuts” section, you’ll find an option to “Add Chrome.” Click on it, and Google Chrome will be installed on your Steam Deck.
Now you have Google Chrome installed and ready to use on your Steam Deck.
Method 2: (Using Desktop Mode)
If you didn’t get the popup for adding Chrome when entering the library on your Steam Deck, it’s likely because you’ve already downloaded other apps. In this case, you can use the Steam Deck’s Desktop Mode to install Google Chrome.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Enter Desktop Mode on your Steam Deck. To do this, press the Steam button to open the menu.
2. Proceed to the Power option and select “Switch to Desktop.”
Once in Desktop Mode, your Steam Deck will function like a portable computer. Now you can proceed to download Google Chrome:
1. Tap the Store icon to open the Discover window.
2. Use the on-screen keyboard by pressing Steam + X and typing “Google Chrome” in the search bar.
3. Click “Install” when the Google Chrome option appears.
You’ve now successfully downloaded Google Chrome on your Steam Deck.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What software does the Steam Deck support?
A1: The Steam Deck is designed to run on SteamOS version 3, an operating system based on Arch Linux. SteamOS provides a user-friendly interface optimized for gaming, allowing users to access their Steam library of games.
Q2: What is Proton on Steam Deck?
A2: Proton is a software tool developed by Valve that enables Windows games to be played on Linux operating systems. It improves compatibility by implementing various technologies, such as DirectX to Vulkan translation and other performance enhancements. Proton has been a significant advancement for Linux gamers, allowing them to play a wider range of games originally designed for Windows.
Q3: How long does the Steam Deck’s battery last?
A3: Valve estimates that the Steam Deck’s battery life can vary between two to eight hours, depending on game intensity, screen brightness, and other system settings. The duration may vary for different usage scenarios and individual gameplay habits.
Final Words:
You should have successfully downloaded Google Chrome on your Steam Deck. If you have any thoughts or further questions about the process, feel free to comment in the section below.
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