Anyone have any luck using Steam Controller (2015) BLE?

[Draco1962]

Anyone have any luck using Steam Controller (2015) BLE? I am experimenting with this and will report back with my findings. I want to be able to use this on my Atari VCS 800 (Should I rename it to Atari VCS 1600 since I doubled the RAM? 🙃) under Bazzite? It says Ubuntu and SteamOS supports it, so it should be OK. I think there may be some hurdles just getting it to work via Windows.

Pasting the content here just in case it is eventually removed from the Steam site:

Steam Controller (2015) BLE

Bluetooth Low Energy Firmware FAQ

You can now add Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) functionality to your Steam Controller. This feature is required to enjoy the Steam Link app, but may provide benefit in other use cases as well. This FAQ describes what this BLE connection can and cannot do compared to the original wireless solution, steps to update your controller to add BLE support, and how to switch between wireless modes once the update is installed.
 

• When to use Bluetooth?

• How do I install this Firmware?

• How do I switch modes?

When is it a good idea to use Bluetooth?

You'll want to use BLE mode when:

• Streaming games to your iOS and Android devices with the Steam Link app.
• Connecting your Steam Controller to a tablet or laptop without a USB port.
• You just can't find your Steam Controller Wireless Receiver.

Otherwise we suggesting sticking with the original protocol. It provides the fastest connection, with low-latency support for up to four controllers per receiver, and works across all major operating systems. The BLE connection is excellent, but the native wireless protocol was designed from the ground up to provide the best experience for a Steam Controller.

How do I install this firmware?

Be aware that the original wireless mode will still be available after adding Bluetooth support. However, the update process will clear all pairings, so you will need to reconnect your wireless receiver to your controller. The steps below guide you through the update and pairing process.
 

1. Download the firmware update tool on Windows and unzip it
2. Plug in your Steam Controller.
3. Run ble.bat to update the firmware
4. Unplug your controller.
5. Select the Add a Steam Controller button on the Controller Settings page. This option only appears if a Wireless Receiver is currently plugged in.
6. Press X + Steam Button on your controller and enter the 4 character Validation Code that appears on the screen.

Congrats! You have reconnected your controller to the Wireless Receiver. Next, connect over BLE by navigating to the Add Bluetooth option of your device. When prompted, press Y + Steam Button on your Steam Controller to make it discoverable.

How do I switch between modes?

If you have already followed the instructions above, you are paired via the Steam Controller Wireless Receiver and BLE. Use the commands below to start your controller in the mode of your choice.

Bluetooth LE Pairing Mode

You’ll need to do this in order to use the Steam Link app

Switch to Bluetooth LE mode

Launches controller in BLE mode

Receiver Pairing Mode

Pair your controller to a new receiver

Switch to dongle mode

Use your controller in Original Receiver Mode
 

Pairing to Multiple Devices

The Steam Controller BLE firmware can store two Bluetooth connections. Connect to the most recently used Bluetooth device by pressing Steam+B. Connect to the second stored Bluetooth connection by pressing Steam+Start.

The firmware can also store multiple wireless receiver connections. Connect to the most recently used wireless receiver by pressing Steam+A. Connect to a different stored wireless receiver by pressing Steam+Back.

Powering up with the Steam button only will connect you to the most recently used device and pairing mode
 

Supported Operating Systems

Bluetooth connectivity is supported in:
 

• Windows 10/11
• macOS
• Ubuntu
• SteamOS

[tthurman]

I’m interested if your results but can’t offer any assistance as mine is still in the box, right next to the Steam Link. 🫤