NVIDIA has announced that a native GeForce Now app will be coming to the Steam Deck “later this year.” This move is set to enhance the gaming experience on Valve’s popular handheld device, making cloud gaming more seamless and accessible than ever.

Currently, Steam Deck users can enjoy GeForce Now through a workaround involving a special installation script provided by NVIDIA. This script automates the process by installing Google Chrome, adjusting browser settings for gamepad compatibility, and then adding GeForce Now to the Steam library. While this method has worked, it’s not without its quirks and requires some manual tweaking to get everything just right.

The upcoming native app promises to simplify this process significantly. Users will no longer need to navigate through browser settings or worry about compatibility issues; the app will be directly installable, offering a true plug-and-play experience. Moreover, it will support up to 4K resolution at 60 frames per second with HDR capabilities when the Steam Deck is hooked up to a television, providing a high-quality gaming experience akin to what you might expect from a desktop setup.

NVIDIA isn’t stopping at the Steam Deck. They’ve also announced plans to extend GeForce Now’s reach into the realm of virtual reality. Later this month, the service will become available on major VR platforms including the Apple Vision Pro, Meta Quest 3 and 3S, and other Pico virtual- and mixed-reality devices. Once GeForce Now version 2.0.70 rolls out, VR users can access a vast library of games directly through their headset’s browser by simply visiting play.geforcenow.com. This expansion into VR opens up new dimensions of gaming, where players can immerse themselves in high-fidelity, cloud-streamed games without the need for powerful local hardware.

Adding to the excitement, NVIDIA has confirmed that two major upcoming titles from Microsoft will be part of the GeForce Now library. “Avowed,” set to launch on February 18th, and “DOOM: The Dark Ages,” expected to hit the shelves later in the year, will both be available for streaming. “Avowed” promises a rich, narrative-driven RPG experience in the world of Eora, while “DOOM: The Dark Ages” is anticipated to continue the franchise’s tradition of fast-paced, gory action. Their inclusion in GeForce Now not only showcases the service’s growing library but also its commitment to delivering the latest and most demanded games to players anywhere, anytime.

The introduction of a native GeForce Now app on the Steam Deck could significantly alter how gamers approach their gaming library. With cloud gaming, players are no longer tethered to the performance of their local hardware. This is particularly beneficial for Steam Deck owners, where the device’s specs, while impressive for its form factor, can struggle with the latest AAA titles without compromises on settings or resolution. GeForce Now on Steam Deck means gamers can enjoy their games at peak performance settings, with all the benefits of NVIDIA’s cloud computing infrastructure, like RTX features and DLSS technology, directly in their hands or on the big screen.