Valve Confirms iFixit Will Continue Selling Steam Deck Batteries
Valve has confirmed that iFixit will continue to sell replacement batteries for the Steam Deck handheld console. This decision addresses previous uncertainty regarding the availability of the key component.
Valve, the company behind the Steam gaming platform, has announced that replacement batteries for its Steam Deck handheld will remain available for purchase through iFixit. The confirmation follows earlier indications that the sale of these batteries would be discontinued, raising concerns among users about the device's repairability.
In a statement provided to The Verge late yesterday, Valve clarified the situation. "We just confirmed with iFixit that they plan to have batteries back in stock by next week," a company representative stated.
The batteries supplied to iFixit are original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts sourced through Valve's partners, consistent with previous arrangements. This ensures that users can still obtain genuine components for self-replacement, mitigating a significant point of concern.
Valve has generally supported the repairability of the Steam Deck by making spare parts available. Maintaining the availability of essential components like batteries is crucial for extending the lifespan of the handheld, particularly as devices enter their second or third year of use.
The continued availability of batteries through iFixit means Steam Deck owners will be able to maintain their devices, ensuring the console remains a viable option for portable gaming for the foreseeable future.