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Valve may have a reason for optimism as it seems the HDMI 2.1 issue in the upcoming Steam Machine may be resolved. Not long ago, it seemed that the lack of support for this technology would be a serious limitation for Valve's hardware. However, the situation is changing, and new information suggests that the console may indeed offer full capabilities of modern image standards.
Breakthrough Thanks to Linux and AMD
The main issue was the lack of open-source drivers for HDMI 2.1 in the Linux environment on which the Steam Machine is based. This limitation prevented support for features such as 4K at 120 Hz, VRR, or advanced HDR modes. However, AMD developers working on the AMDGPU drivers now report that they have managed to enable support for key components of HDMI 2.1, including the FRL technology responsible for higher bandwidth. This means that the hardware of the console was ready earlier, but it was just the appropriate software that was missing. If the work is completed and passes certification, the Steam Machine may gain the functionality it previously lacked.
Opportunity for Real Competition Against PS5 and Xbox
If HDMI 2.1 really makes it to the Steam Machine, it will significantly improve its position in the market. Support for 4K120, VRR, and other modern technologies is now standard in consoles like PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. Without this, Valve would have difficulty competing in the high-end segment. However, questions remain, including the quality of HDR implementation and the overall optimization of the system. Nevertheless, the direction of change is clear; if everything goes according to plan, the Steam Machine could become a much more serious player in the console market.
Problems with HDMI 2.1 may soon be a thing of the past, and the Steam Machine will gain features that it previously lacked. This is good news for gamers and a signal that Valve still wants to compete with the biggest.
source: flatpanelshd
