Announcement of an innovative Zotac Zone, set to unveil at Computex, hints at potential adoption of a custom-made Linux operating system.
Hey there! It looks like the second version of the Zotac Zone handheld gaming PC is about to make an appearance with a twist. According to the latest from VideoCardz, a reliable source, this new model will run on a custom operating system based on Manjaro Linux, rather than the typical SteamOS or Windows 11.
To be specific, reports suggest that it'll be packing the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU. Although we've already caught wind of this development at CES back in January, the fact that it'll run on a Linux-based OS is an exciting shift. It's worth mentioning that Manjaro Linux, which forms the basis of this custom OS, is related to SteamOS, as both are built on Arch Linux.
This decision to ditch SteamOS for Manjaro Linux comes at a time when we're expecting non-Valve SteamOS handhelds to hit the market. It's no secret that SteamOS has been making its way beyond the Steam Deck for quite a while now. In fact, last year we noticed some branding changes and a beta was made available for download, all pointing towards the increasing support for non-Steam Deck handhelds.
Valve itself has recently introduced a compatibility rating system for non-Steam Deck SteamOS handhelds, further confirming this trend. The first handheld expected to use SteamOS is the Legion Go S, but we're anticipating more to follow suit.
Zotac's approach here showcases the possibility of a handheld-friendly Linux gaming experience that isn't limited to SteamOS. That said, it's important to note that Zotac's custom OS could be hit or miss in terms of quality, but it could definitely bring some fresh competition to the scene.
We'll get to see if this new gaming device is the real deal at Computex next week, so keep your fingers crossed that we'll get our hands on some hands-on time with the operating system!
Jacob Fox'Tech geek turned full-time gaming writer', Jacob is one of the passionate minds behind PC Gamer. He first got his taste of gaming hardware when he was just 12 and has been a diehard fan ever since. Besides PC gaming, Jacob's interests lie in philosophy, having earned a doctorate in the subject while freelancing for various tech websites like TechRadar, Pocket-lint, and PC Gamer. Jacob's unique blend of technical expertise and intellectual curiosity makes him a great addition to the PC Gamer team.
- Jacob, a tech geek and gaming writer, awaits the release of the second version of the Zotac Zone handheld gaming PC, which could potentially disrupt the gaming market with its custom Manjaro Linux-based operating system.
- The new Zotac Zone, equipped with the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU, could push boundaries in the handheld gaming sector, showcasing a Linux-based gaming experience beyond SteamOS.
- As the gaming industry witnesses an increasing support for non-Steam Deck handhelds, Jacob is optimistic about the new Zotac device, anticipating it to join the likes of the Legion Go S as a competitor in the growing market.
- With technological advancements in artificial intelligence and gadgets like the Zotac Zone emerging, it's exciting to consider how these innovations might intersect with the realm of gaming in the near future.
