By this I mean features that can possibly be applied via an update. For example I read in a few places that the OLED model will have bluetooth controller wake up (something that can only be done via wired MnK or Steam Controller). Or is this actually a hardware re-work with the internals?
Similarly I read that there will be wireless mic support from bluetooth headphones etc rather than being locked to the onboard mic on the deck.
To me these seem very software based but I could be very wrong.
Both of those are related to Bluetooth so I’d imagine with the new Bluetooth version, probably not
No, these are internal reworks made possible by reshuffling components when the OLED screen takes up less space
https://www.pcgamer.com/steam-deck-oled-battery-life-improvements-coming-to-lcd-versions/
Supposedly they’re making sofware-based battery life optimisations, so that might count for something. Most of the OLED model’s improved battery life comes from the fact that the battery is literally, physically thicker, but maybe someone will make a backplate with a recession that accommodates a thicker battery, if they’re available to be purchased separately through iFixit or similar.