Elgato annoinced its new Virtual Stream Deck (VSD) software at Computex 2025. This is a major part of its “Stream Deck Everywhere” plan that lets you use a deck’s features without owning a physical device.
VSD is a software version of the popular Stream Deck control panel, and it lets you customize controls on any screen. This new software will let you make interactive control pads right on your computer screen. These can stay in one place for easy access or appear when clicked or with a keyboard shortcut.
This is an interesting change for the Stream Deck system, as the entire point originally was to create physical buttons for software actions. At first, VSD will only work for people who already own an Elgato Stream Deck or certain Corsair devices, like the Xeneon Edge monitor and the Scimitar Elite WE SE Mouse.
The app will let you configure the rows and columns to really customize a large version. However, there is a smaller option you keep on your screen that should change based on the program that is opened. It seems a bit chunky, but it will likely be resizable or customizable when it releases.
Later, Elgato plans to make VSD work with more devices, including touchscreens, mice, and keyboards. This will let users control things across different devices from their computers, making the platform far more flexible. Unfortunately, there was no mention about when it would be available without a device from Corsair, but that may be on the horizon.
If you never wanted to spend money on a Stream Deck, you likely don’t know how convenient it is, but making it virtual really improves it. For content creators, it offers a lot of flexibility, such as making custom control panels for any program. It will bring up the control pads when needed for that program and add more buttons without worrying about losing space on your deck or desk.
A virtual deck is still useful even if you’re not a content creator. I know a few people who use it to switch tabs or open tools or games quickly and easily. I’ll get this when it comes out, too, because shortcuts always help with work.
VSD isn’t the only new thing in Elgato’s “Stream Deck Everywhere” plan. At Computex 2025, Elgato also announced Stream Deck Modules, which are basic versions of Stream Deck technology for custom projects. These come in 6, 15, and 32-key versions, built in strong aluminum cases for easy installation in custom setups. The company also introduced the Network Dock for Stream Deck, which adds wired Ethernet support and letting users control Stream Deck remotely.
Elgato also announced a new scissor-switch key version of the Stream Deck MK.2, which offers faster and more precise inputs. So while the company is starting to be mindful of a device-less future, it is still making more for those who prefer a device to use.
Source: Corsair
