INFRA Signal 357
Steam Tests New Pyrowave Codec on Linux and SteamOS
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Valve is testing Pyrowave, a new low-latency Steam Remote Play codec available on Linux and SteamOS through the experimental SteamRT3 client.
The introduction of the Pyrowave codec could significantly enhance the gaming experience for users on Linux and SteamOS by reducing latency and improving image quality. However, it requires substantial bandwidth and specific network setups to function effectively. This codec is geared towards those with high-speed local networks who prioritize performance in their gaming sessions.
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Pyrowave is designed for low latency and high-quality streaming, but is not enabled by default.
It requires a substantial increase in bandwidth compared to conventional codecs, needing Gigabit Ethernet for optimal performance.
Final streaming latency is influenced by various factors, including network conditions and system setups.
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Valve is currently testing the Pyrowave codec for Steam Remote Play, which aims to provide lower latency and improved image quality for users on Linux and SteamOS. To access this codec, users must opt into the experimental SteamRT3 client, as it is not available in the standard build. This testing phase is crucial for gathering performance data and user feedback before a broader release.
The codec's performance heavily relies on a robust network connection, specifically recommending Gigabit Ethernet for best results. Pyrowave can consume five to ten times more bandwidth than traditional codecs, making it less suitable for users on slower connections. The significant bandwidth requirement suggests that this codec is targeted at a niche audience of gamers with access to high-speed internet.
Users can manually adjust bandwidth settings between 100 Mbit/s and 500 Mbit/s, allowing for a customizable streaming experience. However, this requires a solid understanding of network capabilities and the potential trade-offs between image quality and streaming performance. The presence of a quality slider in the settings emphasizes the need for users to balance their specific use cases with the available network resources.
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