With the Steam Deck's desktop mode, you can use your handheld console like a normal Linux computer, install programs outside of Steam, and make advanced settings. The desktop mode is independent of the language setting in the gaming mode and is set to English by default.
Here you can find out how to change the desktop mode to German.
Switch to desktop mode
First, you'll need to get to the desktop. Here's how to do that: Start Steam Deck in Desktop Mode .
(In the shutdown dialog, you can click "Switch to desktop mode.")
Use virtual keyboard
In Steam Deck's desktop mode, you can open and close the virtual keyboard using the following key combination:
Press the " STEAM button" and the " X button" at the same time.
For more information about the Steam Deck virtual keyboard, see Steam Deck virtual keyboard .
Perform updates
Before you start changing the language, you should perform the existing updates in desktop mode. Here's how to do it!
Switch desktop mode to German
Change language
- In desktop mode, click on the start icon and open “System settings ” under “Settings ”.
- In the menu on the left, under the heading “Personalization,” select “Regional Settings.”
- Now in “Region & Language” next to “Language” click on the button “Modify…” .
- At the top right you will find the button “Change Language” , select it.
- In the new window, click on “German” or another desired language.
- Then press the “Apply” button at the bottom right and then select “Restart now” at the top right.
After the restart, your Steam Deck's operating system will be set to German. If you now switch back to desktop mode, everything will be displayed in the language of your choice.