How to Install Waydroid on Steam Deck: Full Guide

cross-posted from: https://lemmy.dbzer0.com/post/38020983

Before We Begin
Hello deck-ers, this guide walks you through installing Waydroid, a tool to run Android apps on your Steam Deck. Links are included below for troubleshooting and updates. Enjoy ;)

Step 1: Set Up a Password

Your Steam Deck’s terminal (Konsole) will ask for a password during installation. If you haven’t set one yet:

Switch to Desktop Mode and open the Konsole app (found in the taskbar or applications menu).

Type passwd and press Enter.

Create a password. For simplicity, a 4-digit code like 9876 works, but use something stronger if security matters to you, (as it should).

Note: The password won’t show as you type, this is not a bug.

Re-enter the password when prompted to confirm.

Why? This password grants temporary “sudo” access to install software.

Step 2: Install Waydroid

Prerequisite: Ensure your Steam Deck is connected to the internet.
Open Konsole (still in Desktop Mode).
Copy and paste these commands one by one, waiting for each to finish:

Command 1 – Download the Installer:
cd ~/ && git clone https://github.com/ryanrudolfoba/steamos-waydroid-installer
This downloads the necessary files to your home folder.

Command 2 – Run the Installer:
cd ~/steamos-waydroid-installer && chmod +x steamos-waydroid-installer.sh && ./steamos-waydroid-installer.sh
This makes the script executable and starts the installation.
Wait for the magic to happen!

The installer sets up Waydroid and applies custom configurations.

Installation takes ~5 minutes (varies with internet speed).

When finished, close Konsole and return to Game Mode.
Step 3: Launch Waydroid

In Game Mode, navigate to your Library > Non-Steam Games.

Find and launch the script named Android_Waydroid_Cage.sh.

Waydroid will boot, give it a moment to initialize.

Need to Uninstall?
Back in Desktop Mode, open Konsole.
Paste these commands:
cd ~/Android_Waydroid && ./uninstall.sh
This removes Waydroid and its files.
Troubleshooting & Tips

Issues? Check the official GitHub for known bugs, compatibility notes, and updates.

Keyboard/Mouse Not Working? Some users report needing a Bluetooth or USB input device for setup.

Performance: Close background apps in Desktop Mode and try again, otherwise I recommend checking opened issues over on github.

Enjoy your Android apps on Steam Deck! 🎮
Credits to ryanrudolfoba and the Waydroid contributors, cool guys!

Last tip: If this is your thing, check the AndroidTV installation option for a cool docked experience !!!