It wasn’t just about aesthetics though. The Steam Deck Dock actually serves a very useful set of functions. Thanks to the collection of ports on the back, you can easily plug it into your router for a hardwired ethernet connection. There’s also three USB ports, an HDMI 2.0 port, and a DisplayPort 1.4 port. Allowing for external output to a monitor, and the ability to plug in peripherals like controllers. Basically, if you wanted to use the Steam Deck as a living room PC, this would be the best way to do that. Initially this was expected to launch this Summer. But Valve has had to delay the launch.
The Steam Deck Dock doesn’t have a new release date
Although Valve never gave a definitive launch date for the accessory, it did at least confirm a Summer timeframe. Now the launch has been pushed back and the company hasn’t given a new release date for the Steam Deck Dock. Which means you could be waiting a while to buy one. Valve says the delay is due to supply chain issues and COVID closures. Which is a pretty typical set of reasons at this point. As the Dock is hardly the first product to meet a delay for these very issues. Valve says it’s working to improve the situation. But at the moment there’s no more information to share. That leaves users who own a Steam Deck with more limited options. You could purchase a third-party dock if you can find one. A number of users have also created 3D printed docks which can at the very least serve as a stand. And many or all of these creations have been shared on sites like Thingiverse for those that want to print the items themselves. Valve also states that it’s working to improve the experience with all USB-C hubs. So if you do end up picking up something that’s third-party, there’s a chance it will work better soon.
— Steam Deck (@OnDeck) June 1, 2022
