Valve is phasing out the original replacement batteries for the Steam Deck LCD, a move that complicates long-term repairs for owners of the first-generation handheld. iFixit confirmed that the company is discontinuing its stock of these OEM parts, which forces repair shops and DIY enthusiasts to find alternative power sources. This shift matters because it directly impacts the ability to keep older devices running, challenging the repairability expectations many users had when the LCD model launched.
iFixit confirms OEM stock is gone with no confirmed timeline for alternatives
The Steam Deck LCD remains a popular entry point for handheld gaming, but its aging hardware now faces a supply chain bottleneck for one of its most critical components. iFixit, a leading repair resource, stated that Valve is actively looking for alternatives to the discontinued OEM batteries. However, the repair giant has not received a confirmed timeline for when new stock, whether original or aftermarket, will become available to the public.
Community reaction to the discontinuation has been largely negative, with many users pointing out the contradiction between the initial promises of repairability and the current reality. Owners of the original Steam Deck are now left without a clear path to replace degraded batteries, a common issue for lithium-ion devices after several years of use. This lack of official support stands in contrast to the current status of the newer Steam Deck OLED, for which replacement batteries remain readily available.
Observations from repair communities and social media indicate significant frustration regarding the limited communication from Valve about this change. This development underscores the difficulties of supporting older devices within a market that frequently emphasizes new product launches over extended maintenance. For now, owners of the LCD model must rely on third-party options or hold onto their original batteries, as no official replacement program has been announced.
Source: NotebookCheck
