# SteamVR 2.18 fixes async reprojection on AMD, adds USB tethered Quest streaming

> **Key takeaway:** Valve's SteamVR 2.18 stable release includes multiple Linux-specific fixes for AMD GPUs, GPU selection, and OpenXR startup, alongside new Quest USB tethering and a default Aurora environment.

**Published:** 2026-10-22T07:01:05+00:00 
**Source:** GamingOnLinux (Steam, Proton & Deck) 
**Category:** open-gaming 
**Canonical URL:** https://fosswire.org/news/steamvr-218-fixes-async-reprojection-on-amd-adds-usb-tethere.html 

## Summary
Valve released SteamVR 2.18 with platform-wide fixes and new features. Linux users gain corrected async reprojection on AMD, proper hybrid GPU selection, systemd-less compatibility, and resolved OpenXR launch crashes. The update also adds USB tethered streaming for Meta Quest headsets and makes Aurora the default VR environment.

## Linux and platform fixes in SteamVR 2.18
- **AMD async reprojection**: Fixed failing async reprojection on AMD GPUs, a critical performance feature for smooth VR rendering on Linux
- **Hybrid GPU systems**: Fixed GPU selection on machines with both discrete and integrated graphics
- **Systemd independence**: Restored compatibility with Linux distributions that do not use systemd
- **OpenXR startup**: Eliminated crashes when launching OpenXR games if SteamVR was not already running
- **Driver compatibility**: Removed VK_KHR_maintenance_9 requirement to support older graphics drivers on Linux
- **Steam Frame**: Controllers now default to gamepad input in VR games lacking native VR input support; eye openness data exposed via OSC (requires SteamOS 0.4.3+)
- **Quest USB tethering**: New wired streaming option over USB, requiring latest Steam Link app on Quest

## Why it matters
The Linux fixes address long-standing pain points for VR on AMD hardware and non-standard distributions, while the VK_KHR_maintenance_9 removal extends support to older Mesa and proprietary driver installations. USB tethered Quest streaming provides a lower-latency alternative to WiFi for Steam Link users.