steamos-select-branch

View the current branch

$ steamos-select-branch -c

$ steamos-select-branch -l

$ steamos-select-branch beta

$ steamos-select-branch stable

$ steamos-select-branch main

steamos-select-branch [options]

--help
    Displays help text and exits.

--version
    Displays version information and exits.


    The name of the branch to switch to (e.g., 'stable', 'beta', 'preview').

The `steamos-select-branch` command allows users to manage and switch between different update branches of SteamOS. This is crucial for accessing beta versions, pre-release software, or reverting to stable releases. It handles the underlying system configurations necessary to redirect updates to the chosen branch. The tool modifies APT (Advanced Package Tool) configuration files and system settings to point to the appropriate repositories for the selected branch. This ensures that when the system checks for updates, it receives packages from the designated channel. It's a vital utility for developers testing new features and users who want early access or need to troubleshoot specific software versions. Proper usage of this command requires understanding of SteamOS's update model and the implications of using unstable or beta branches, which might expose the system to potential instability or bugs.

Switching to an unstable branch can cause system instability. Backup important data before switching.

Common branch names include stable (the default and most reliable), beta (pre-release software, for users who don't mind more bugs) , and preview (bleeding edge releases for developers and enthusiasts). The availability of branches may vary.

After using `steamos-select-branch`, the system typically requires a reboot and then an update via the standard SteamOS update mechanism, usually found in the system settings.

To switch to the beta branch:
steamos-select-branch beta

This command modifies the APT settings, and you will need to run an update after reboot.

The `steamos-select-branch` command was developed by Valve as a utility specific to SteamOS. It's crucial for managing the rolling release nature of SteamOS and offering multiple update channels. The command is designed to simplify the process of switching between these channels for both testing purposes and general usage.

apt(8), apt-get(8), dpkg(1)