AMD is adding HDMI 2.1 support for Linux. That's good news for the Steam Machine.

AMD has announced HDMI 2.1 support for Linux and SteamOS, enabling higher bandwidth for 4K 120Hz gaming and variable refresh rate (VRR) . The initial update includes HDMI Fixed Rate Link but excludes DSC, with full HDMI 2.1 implementation expected once patches and compliance testing are complete . While the Steam Machine hardware is wired for HDMI 2.1, the SteamOS operating system was previously unable to expose the full feature set due to HDMI Forum licensing restrictions and Linux driver limitations .

Source: Ars Technica | 2026-05-04