A little over four years ago, Steam creator Valve invigorated the handheld gaming PC market with the Steam Deck. Featuring a strong balance of performance, battery longevity, and price alongside a smooth user experience driven by the bespoke Linux-based SteamOS and quality controls, it was an instant hit. And even as competing Windows devices like the ASUS ROG Ally, the Lenovo Legion Go 2, and the Xbox Ally have come along, the Steam Deck is still the preferred handheld of choice for many.
With the rise of AI bringing a widespread RAM shortage, however, Steam Deck stock has rapidly dried up this year, and it may not be back for a long time; reports indicate that AI datacenters are expected to use up 70% of available RAM in 2026, lengthening a memory crisis so severe that it's hamstringing countless industries, from the production of automotives to the creation of Xbox's upcoming Project Helix console.
