Source is KeplerL2, who is generally considered a reliable source for insider hardware info, particularly on AMD GPU hardware and AMD SoC for consoles.
Previously I would have personally estimated Steam Deck 2 to release mid 2026-early 2027, but the recent info about an upcoming Steam Machine made me think that maybe I should push back that estimate.
Of course even if we assume this is reliable insider info, a lot can change in couple years, so things can definitely change.
The only things I need from a new deck are ergonomic changes, larger display and better grips and buttons placement, specifically back buttons and shoulders/triggers. Not in a hurry though.
How would you change the ergonomics/button placement? I find everything pretty comfy where it is, but I have somewhat large hands.
The Deck shape is too square, I know this is for maintaining the smallest footprint, but for comfort it should be shaped more like a parallelogram with the sides pointing slightly outwards, like regular controllers are. For me the shape of the PS4 is perfect but if that is too much, then something more subtle like the 8BitDo ultimate, albeit no ideal, would do it.
Regarding the shoulder buttons the triggers are recessed compared to the shoulder buttons, this is this way because with a square shape is the only solution available. It’s the exact same layout as the Wii U tablet controller and makes it difficult to easily reach both the shoulder and trigger without cramping your hands. With a non square shape the top of the Deck could be more rounded and then have buttons layout similar to regular controllers.
As for the back buttons well, they are simply horrible, flat, shaped and positioned awkwardly (they are at a straight angle when they should be tilted slightly inwards), they are hard to press and uncomfortable for longer gaming sessions. Anything they do with these should be an improvement.