It’s been three months since theSteam Deckwas unleashed onto the portable gaming market, and many people have been getting to grips with it. With theSteam Deck now supporting Windows, Valve is attempting to show that it’s more than just a portable games console and that it is, in fact, a fully functional PC not much different to the desktops people have in their homes. Alongside that, there have been discussions about people having the ability to repair their device, and one firm is offering such a service.A company called iFixit, a global tech website that offers repair tools and advice, accidentally put spareSteam Deckparts up for sale earlier than it should have. Realizing the mistake, the listings were swiftly removed, though not before some people could place an order. However, in a post on Twitter a few days ago, the company stated that it would honor any parts orders made during the short window when they were available.RELATED:Stats Suggest the Steam Deck May Have Influenced an Increase in Linux GamingWhile the sale of Steam Deck spare parts was initially in error, the items have since been relisted, which means anyone who wishes to buy bits to repair their handheld PC can now do so. An additional tweet expressed joy that Valve has embracedconsumers' and gamers' right to repairtheir devices. This has been a contentious issue among tech users, with a consumer-led movement scoring a small victory last year, when a US court ruled that repairing a current-gen console would become easier. It does have its limitations, but many will see this is a step forward in giving people the right to fix their own hardware.
This will also show Valve in a more favorable light as users now have the ability to get hold of officially endorsed spare parts. Although theSteam Deck seems to be quite durable, with a recent YouTube video testing the screen and body, things will begin to deteriorate over time. So it will be good news for anyone who has a Steam Deck or is looking to purchase one that they can now repair it themselves.
In general, it seems like theSteam Deckis shaping up to be something of a world beater.Valve may have a history of developing poorly received hardware, but this latest endeavor is proving to be a successful one for the company. With the developer now supporting people’s right to repair, this could set a precedent for other tech companies when it comes to allowing consumers to fix the devices they’ve paid money for.
