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Title: Lenovo Introduces Legion Go S: The Handheld Gaming Device Powered by SteamOS

Boosting the gaming landscape, Lenovo has introduced two intriguing devices: the Lenovo Legion Go S, available with either Windows or SteamOS, and a prototype for the Lenovo Go 2, now boasting ergonomic controllers.

Title: Lenovo Introduces Legion Go S: The Handheld Gaming Device Powered by SteamOS

Lenovo's pushing its Legion Go lineup to the limit! Their debut handheld was a hit, though basic, and the forthcoming Legion Go S is bound to resonate with anyone who's used a Steam Deck or similar device.

It's still an 8-inch device, rejoicing the hearts of large-screen enthusiasts. The Legion Go S will be available in multiple iterations, one boasting the popular AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU from the Asus ROG Ally and Legion Go, and a new, exclusive AMD Ryzen Z2 Go. We don't have performance details yet, though Asus is enhancing the Legion Go's memory capacity with a robust 32GB of 7500Mhz LPDDR5X RAM. Regrettably, we won't see the 80Whr battery of the Asus ROG Ally X in the Go S; instead, it's sticking with a 55Whr battery.

Specs are specs, and the Legion Go S boasts solid components. However, what sets it apart is the integration of the Linux-based SteamOS. If you can't stand Windows on a small screen and own PC games exclusively through Valve's platform, this may offer the most user-friendly, console-like experience outside Valve's hardware. Configurations with the AMD Z2 Go, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB storage (including the SteamOS version) will cost $500 to $730. The Windows variant is arriving in January, while the SteamOS handheld is due in May 2023.

The Steam Deck itself houses an AMD CPU, so porting SteamOS to the Legion Go wasn't a daunting task. The button traditionally used to access Lenovo's Legion Center software will now serve as the Steam Deck's "Steam" button. Valve reps informed Gizmodo that SteamOS will support the "Verified" badge on SteamOS platforms beyond the Steam Deck. These badges will have specific requirements for Lenovo and Valve's handhelds going forward.

If that weren't thrilling enough, Lenovo showcased early renders of the Legion Go 2. The follow-up to the 2023 handheld features an 8.8-inch OLED display and is rumored to include the Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor, supporting AMD RDNA 3.5, and up to 32GB of RAM. Its battery and storage options should make it a premium option, and we eagerly anticipate testing it against the MSI Claw 8 AI+ for 8-inch dominance.

The redesigned ergonomics likely represent the most exhilarating aspect. Lenovo acknowledged the discomfort of the original Legion Go and improved both the Go S and Go 2 with softer contours. The Truestrike detachable controllers now have rounded corners, offering a Nintendo Switch-like experience. Plus, players can still use one controller as a mouse in first-person shooters.

Pricing and a release date for the Legion Go 2 are still undisclosed; however, Lenovo pledged to share more information later in 2025. In the meantime, Lenovo's Legion brand hasn't overlooked laptop enthusiasts. A refreshed Legion Pro 7i is on the horizon, boasting enhanced cooling and powerful Intel and Nvidia specs, making it a top contender for 2024.

The integration of SteamOS in the Legion Go S and potential future models like the Legion Go 2 highlights Lenovo's commitment to embracing technology and the tech-savvy future of gaming handhelds. With this operating system, gamers who prefer Valve's platform and dislike Windows on smaller screens will find a user-friendly, console-like experience.

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