Good news, Steam Deck owners—your portable powerhouse is about to get a serious upgrade. NVIDIA announced at CES 2025 that a native GeForce NOW app is finally on its way. Sure, there’s been a beta app kicking around for a while, but it capped out at 1080p and felt more like a test run than the real deal. Now, with an official native app, we’re talking full RTX support, optimized performance, and features that make 1080p streaming look like ancient history.
What’s Changing?
The beta version of the GeForce NOW app for Steam Deck was functional, but it came with limitations—1080p resolution, 60fps max, and occasional quirks that made the experience less than seamless. The new native app changes the game with proper system integration, improved stability, and docked 4K support.
In handheld mode, the resolution remains 1280×800, as that’s the Steam Deck’s display spec. But the big question is whether the app will unlock features like HDR and higher frame rates for the OLED model, which supports up to 90Hz refresh rates. If it does, Steam Deck OLED users could see a leap in both visuals and smoothness.
The docked experience is also getting a boost, with support for 4K at 60fps with HDR10 on external displays—turning the Steam Deck into a true portable RTX gaming rig when connected to a monitor or TV.
Key Performance Features and Questions
GeForce NOW’s Ultimate membership includes RTX 4080-level performance, with features like DLSS 3 for sharper visuals and NVIDIA Reflex for ultra-low latency. But what cloud gamers really want to know is:
- Will 90fps be supported in handheld mode? The hardware can handle it—now it’s up to the app.
- Will HDR be available on the Steam Deck OLED in portable mode? If so, games will look richer, with deeper contrast and more vibrant colors.
These questions remain unanswered for now, but the fact that this is a native app designed for the Steam Deck gives reason for optimism. NVIDIA has a solid track record of maximizing hardware potential with its native apps on PC, Android, and smart TVs.
Why This Matters
The Steam Deck is already a standout for PC gamers craving portability, but it can struggle with demanding AAA games when running locally. By leaning into GeForce NOW’s RTX-powered cloud service, the Steam Deck gets a performance boost that eliminates those struggles. You’ll be able to play visually stunning games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Avowed in ultra settings without overworking the device itself.
The timing of this announcement shows NVIDIA’s broader strategy—GeForce NOW isn’t just a novelty; it’s becoming a core part of the gaming landscape, from handhelds and smart TVs to VR and AR headsets like the Apple Vision Pro.
Final Thoughts
The arrival of the native GeForce NOW app is a big win for Steam Deck users. Whether or not HDR and 90fps support make it into the handheld experience, this move promises smoother gameplay, better performance, and fewer connection issues. And with the RTX 5080 looming, there’s a lot to look forward to as cloud gaming continues to grow.
So, what’s the first game you’ll stream once the app arrives? Will you hold out for even higher specs, or is RTX 4080-level gaming enough for your portable adventures? Let us know—we’re all dreaming of RTX-powered adventures here!
Leave a Reply