Lenovo's leaked handheld could change the gaming landscape forever
- Leaked images show an unannounced handheld gaming device from Lenovo with a Steam button.
- The black model suggests support for SteamOS, while the white variant hints at a Windows option.
- Lenovo's entry into the SteamOS market may indicate a shift away from Windows-based handhelds amid growing consumer dissatisfaction.
In the lead-up to CES 2025, leaked images have surfaced showcasing an unannounced handheld gaming device from Lenovo, called the Legion Go S. These images reveal two models of the device: a black variant featuring a Steam button located next to its display and a white version that lacks this button. The presence of the Steam button on the black model suggests that Lenovo is positioning itself within the SteamOS ecosystem, following Valve's earlier announcement that it would support the ROG Ally handheld with its Steam Deck operating system. Interestingly, this hints at the possibility that Lenovo may be developing both Windows and SteamOS-powered variants of the Legion Go S, indicating a strategic move toward catering to diverse consumer preferences. The launch of this device comes amidst a growing interest in alternatives to Windows-based handheld gaming devices, as manufacturers like Lenovo, Asus, and MSI have primarily focused on Windows. The announcement is particularly timely, as consumer dissatisfaction with the Windows experience on small screens has intensified, prompting these companies to explore more adaptable operating systems. Recent updates from Valve, including new branding guidelines for hardware labeled 'Powered by SteamOS,' suggest that the company is increasingly collaborating with third-party manufacturers to certify devices running SteamOS, marking a significant shift in its hardware strategy. Notably, Valve's previous attempt to promote Steam Machines at CES 2013 fell short due to a lack of game porting to Linux, leading to limited market appeal. This time, however, the presence of the Proton software compatibility layer on the Steam Deck has demonstrated that many Windows games can run efficiently on Linux. This advancement is seen as a valuable asset in entrenching SteamOS as a viable option for PC gaming, making the current opportunity for Lenovo to enter the market much more favorable than a decade ago. As CES 2025 approaches, all eyes will be on Lenovo and other PC makers as they potentially unveil their SteamOS-powered hardware, reshaping the landscape of handheld gaming devices.