Tag: Steam Frame

  • Steamworks SDK Adds Android ARM Support with Walkabout Mini Golf VR

    Steamworks SDK Adds Android ARM Support with Walkabout Mini Golf VR

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve’s ARM-based Steam Frame VR headset will support Android games, starting with Walkabout Mini Golf VR.
    2. The Android version of compatible games will be available on Steam without separate listings, enhancing user convenience.
    3. Recent updates to the Steamworks SDK indicate support for distributing Android APK files on the Steam Frame, initially focused on VR games.
    4. The integration of PC and Android gaming could lead to smoother multi-platform releases, benefiting both players and developers.
    5. Valve’s testing with the Waydroid emulator suggests potential future support for Android emulation on PC Steam, expanding access to more games.

    Following the reveal of the ARM-based Steam Frame VR headset, Valve has confirmed that Android games will be available on Steam for this device. It was just a matter of time before we discovered the first game that will be compatible with the Frame, and that game is Walkabout Mini Golf VR (check out the YouTube video review).

    Game Compatibility

    Walkabout Mini Golf VR, created using the Unity engine, is currently accessible for both ARM Android headsets such as the Meta Quest and PCVR (x86) users through its existing Steam page. A notable update was found on X/Twitter by @SadlyItsBradley, who used SteamDB to highlight that the Android APK will be available for current owners on Steam Frame right from the start. The Android version is now simply an additional option under the same Steam title.

    New Developments

    This update, along with the recently released Steamworks SDK 1.63, confirms the introduction of libraries for “linuxarm64” and “androidarm64” on Steam. This implies that Android APK files should soon be distributable through Steam for the Steam Frame, although at the moment it seems to be limited to VR games and SteamOS.

    Future of Multi-Platform Gaming

    The smooth integration of this system raises the hope that future multi-platform releases between PC and Android could eventually enable Steam users to play games on PCs, standalone VR headsets, and even smartphones. However, Valve might have reasons to proceed with caution. The primary concern would be upsetting Google, even though its recent legal defeat against Epic Games suggests that Steam could distribute games freely without being removed from the Play Store. Such a move would make cross-platform gaming between Android and PC much smoother, benefiting both Valve and developers.

    Additionally, Valve’s internal tests with the Waydroid Android emulator, reported last year, might hint at the potential for Android emulation being introduced to PC Steam. This would enhance the playability and distribution of Android games that might not even have PC versions.

     

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  • Valve Unveils Steam Frame: First Standalone VR Headset

    Valve Unveils Steam Frame: First Standalone VR Headset

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Steam Frame is an independent VR headset that can run games on its own and supports wireless streaming from other devices using a 6 GHz dongle.
    2. It features LCD technology with pancake lenses, offering a resolution of 2160 x 2160 pixels, a refresh rate of up to 144 Hz, and a 110-degree field of view.
    3. The headset is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, has 16 GB of RAM, and comes with storage options of 256 GB or 1 TB, running on SteamOS.
    4. The Steam Frame incorporates foveated streaming technology for efficient GPU usage by rendering only the areas users are looking at.
    5. The controllers include 6 degrees of freedom tracking, capacitive finger tracking, and weigh 130 grams, while the headset weighs 440 grams (185 grams without the battery pack).

    Valve has just released its latest VR headset, previously referred to as Deckard. Although it serves as a successor to the Valve Index, the Steam Frame stands out as an independent device capable of running games on its own. Users also have the option to play games from another device, streaming them wirelessly to the headset using a 6 GHz dongle. Additionally, it features a battery pack that is cleverly mounted on the back of the headset.

    Display and Specifications

    In contrast to various VR headsets (such as the Apple Vision Pro) that utilize OLED screens, Valve has opted for LCD technology paired with pancake lenses. The lenses each boast a resolution of 2160 x 2160 pixels and support a refresh rate of up to 144 Hz. With a field of view of 110 degrees, these lenses can accommodate eyeglasses up to 140 mm in width.

    One standout element of the Steam Frame is its foveated streaming capability. This technology tracks your eye movements and only renders the areas you are currently looking at. This feature helps to save GPU power while providing enhanced visual fidelity in the areas that are being rendered.

    Performance and Features

    Beneath its sleek exterior, the Steam Frame is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, complemented by 16 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and storage options of either 256 GB or 1 TB. It runs on SteamOS right out of the box and employs a translation layer to allow for the running of mainly x86 Steam games on an Arm-based system-on-chip (SoC). The Snapdragon SoC theoretically enables users to access Arm-based VR titles as well.

    The included battery has a capacity of 21.6 Wh and can charge at a rate of up to 45 Watts via USB-C. For tracking, Valve has equipped the headset with four outward-facing monochrome cameras for both the headset and controller, two internal cameras for eye tracking and foveated streaming, along with infrared illuminators for use in dimly lit spaces. A Wi-Fi 7 antenna allows the Steam Frame to connect directly to the internet.

    Controller Design and Weight

    When it comes to the controllers, the Steam Frame features a mostly conventional design that includes 6 degrees of freedom (DOF) tracking, capacitive finger tracking, and a standard layout of A B X Y/D-Pad on each controller. The thumbsticks are equipped with TMR modules, effectively removing the chance of stick drift. Weighing in at just 130 grams with a single AA battery, they are quite lightweight.

    The headset itself, however, is a bit heavier at 440 grams, although this drops to 185 grams when the battery pack is detached. The Steam Frame also includes an additional vertical head strap for extra support. Unfortunately, as it was with the Steam Machine, there is still no information on pricing or a release date.

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    Valve Unveils Steam Frame: First Standalone VR HeadsetValve Unveils Steam Frame: First Standalone VR Headset

     

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  • Valve Steam Controller: Dual Trackpads and New Feature Leaks

    Valve Steam Controller: Dual Trackpads and New Feature Leaks

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve is reportedly preparing to unveil a new VR headset named Steam Frame.
    2. A new Steam Controller, designed for the headset, may also benefit desktop PC gamers.
    3. The controller’s design resembles the Steam Deck, featuring two analog sticks, a D-pad, shoulder buttons, and ABXY buttons.
    4. It includes two square trackpads to assist with cursor movement in games, eliminating the need for a mouse.
    5. The controller can sense the distance between the player’s hands and itself, potentially enhancing VR experiences, although it won’t track individual finger movements.

    For several months, there have been whispers that Valve is getting ready to unveil a new VR headset named Steam Frame. Recently, @SadlyItsBradley has provided insights about a new Steam Controller that is made for this headset, but it may also be of interest to gamers using desktop PCs.

    Design Details

    The image below is an AI-generated mockup that draws inspiration from a current prototype. It seems that the Steam Controller will follow the design of the Steam Deck’s control layout. Along with two analog sticks, there is a D-pad, shoulder buttons, and the classic ABXY buttons. Notably, the Steam Controller includes two square trackpads, which might help users move the cursor easily, enabling them to play strategy games like Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition without needing a mouse.

    Innovative Features

    An interesting aspect is that both grips are said to have the capability to sense the distance between the player’s hands and the controller. Though this technology won’t track individual finger movements, it may still serve some purposes in VR, like turning motion tracking on or off. The plastic exterior is reported to have a slightly coarse texture, much like that of the Steam Deck. It’s anticipated that the controller will be available in the coming months, but no specific launch date has been announced yet.

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  • New Valve VR Headset Launch Expected Soon for Steam Users

    New Valve VR Headset Launch Expected Soon for Steam Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve is developing a new VR headset called “Steam Frame,” which may function as a standalone device similar to the Meta Quest 3 and connect wirelessly to PCs.
    2. An announcement for the Steam Frame VR headset could happen on Wednesday, November 12th, according to leaks from various sources.
    3. A potential release for the Steam Frame is anticipated during the Holiday season of 2025, aligning with typical gaming console launch timing.
    4. There are indications of a new, unconfirmed Steam controller, suggesting further product developments from Valve.
    5. Caution is advised regarding these rumors, as previous announcements of similar nature did not materialize as expected.

    It’s pretty much common knowledge now that Valve is working on a new VR headset for PC. Internally called “Deckard”, this headset is said to be named “Steam Frame”. It’s rumored to be a standalone device, similar to the Meta Quest 3, which will connect wirelessly to a PC without needing any cords. Previous reports have suggested that Valve plans a significant launch with an estimated production in the hundreds of thousands annually.

    Possible Announcement Date

    Recent information suggests we may be very close to the official launch. According to details shared by SadlyItsBradley on their Discord (via r/GamingLeaksAndRumors), Valve might make an announcement for the Steam Frame VR headset on Wednesday, November 12th. This info reportedly comes from “a few sources, over a few weeks”. The leaker adds that Valve could take one or two weeks to finalize their messaging about the Steam Frame before starting pre-orders.

    Anticipated Release Timing

    While we can’t verify the exact release date for the Valve Steam Frame, a launch during the Holiday season of 2025 appears to be a likely option for Valve’s next gaming console. The Holiday period has always been a popular time for releasing gaming consoles, as it helps to ensure high demand. Additionally, we’ve seen our first glimpse of a new, unconfirmed Steam controller, suggesting that things are aligning for a new Valve VR console.

    Skeptical Outlook

    That being said, we recommend taking this information with a big pinch of salt, since we previously heard a similar rumor in mid-September about an upcoming Wednesday launch that didn’t happen. So, seeing another rumor about a Wednesday announcement definitely raises some eyebrows.

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    New Valve VR Headset Launch Expected Soon for Steam Users

     

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  • Valve Steam Frame headset leaks, mass production for 2023 release

    Valve Steam Frame headset leaks, mass production for 2023 release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve’s new VR headset, informally named “Deckard” and possibly launching as “Steam Frame,” is in large-scale production for a 2025 release.
    2. The production is expected to yield between 400,000 and 600,000 units annually, demonstrating Valve’s serious commitment to the VR market.
    3. The headset will focus on wireless streaming from PCs, and new controller models have been found in SteamVR code.
    4. The launch could reshape the competitive landscape for high-end PC-connected VR and rekindle market interest.
    5. Official specifications and pricing are still pending, but the anticipated high price point and standalone streaming capabilities suggest significant hardware improvements.

    Valve’s new VR headset is said to have started large-scale production, with fresh insights coming from a Chinese analyst group. This new information also aligns with earlier industry rumors.

    Production Details

    As per the XR Research Institute, Valve’s upcoming VR headset, which is informally named “Deckard” and may be launched as “Steam Frame,” is currently being manufactured for a planned release in 2025. They estimate that production will result in between 400,000 and 600,000 units each year.

    Serious Commitment to VR

    These figures highlight Valve’s strong commitment to re-entering the VR hardware market on a large scale. The company has acknowledged through various public announcements and developer codes that they are developing a new headset that emphasizes wireless streaming from PCs. Mentions of “Deckard” have been spotted in SteamVR code since at least 2021. Additionally, towards the end of 2024, new “Roy” controller models, which look similar to the Oculus Touch, were discovered in SteamVR clues. A trademark application for “Steam Frame” along with newer code snippets suggests that this is likely to be the final product name, moving away from the Deckard label.

    Impact on the Market

    With shipments anticipated this year, the launch of this device could significantly influence the competitive landscape and rekindle interest in high-end PC-connected VR. Previous speculations have indicated a high price point, standalone streaming capabilities with PC tethering, and substantial hardware enhancements, but official confirmation of these specifications is still awaited. Given that the latest leak points to a 2025 launch, an official announcement should be forthcoming soon.

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  • VR Accessory Maker Hints at Early 2026 Valve Steam Frame Launch

    VR Accessory Maker Hints at Early 2026 Valve Steam Frame Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Valve Deckard, or “Steam Frame,” is set to launch with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC and dual 120 Hz, 2,160 × 2,160 LCDs, expected in 2026.
    2. ProTubeVR is offering a pre-order for the ProVolver Elite Haptic Pistol, compatible with the Steam Frame and featuring haptic feedback settings.
    3. ProTubeVR anticipates the ProVolver Elite will release in February 2026, coinciding with the Steam Frame’s potential launch.
    4. Valve’s trademark filing indicates an unnamed VR headset is in development, with a possible release timeline aligning with ProTubeVR’s plans.
    5. The Steam Frame will compete against high-end options like the Apple Vision Pro and budget-friendly headsets like the Meta Quest 3.

    The Valve Deckard, also known recently as the “Steam Frame,” is making waves in the VR world with leaks surfacing about its features even before its official launch. The headset is expected to be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC and will boast dual 120 Hz, 2,160 × 2,160 LCDs. A reliable VR accessory company has now backed these leaks, confirming that Valve is indeed set to release an update to the Steam Index, with a potential launch for the Steam Frame as early as 2026.

    ProTubeVR’s New Release

    ProTubeVR has kicked off a pre-order campaign for its ProVolver Elite Haptic Pistol, compatible with a range of VR headsets, including the “Steam Frame.” The controller appears to be quite intriguing, especially with a teaser video that showcases various haptic feedback settings tailored for different weapons. However, it seems that fans of Steam VR are more interested in the mention of the Steam Frame itself.

    Anticipated Launch Timeline

    ProTubeVR plans to release the ProVolver Elite in February 2026, hinting that they believe the Steam Frame will be ready by then. In response to inquiries about the Steam Frame’s mention on X, ProTubeVR indicated that their information came from trademark filings. Their community manager also noted that if the Steam VR headset is not launched by February, the ProVolver would be released one month after the Steam Frame’s debut.

    This information is based on Valve’s recent trademark filing for their upcoming VR headset, which remains unnamed for now. The mentioned release date marks the earliest possible time for fulfilling pre-orders, assuming Valve indeed launches their next headset by that date. If not, customers can expect a release one month after the headset hits the market.

    Competing in the Market

    Although ProTubeVR seems to be cautious in its statements, it’s not unusual for accessory makers to gain access to confidential materials or insider info to time their product launches with those of the main systems they support. The Steam Frame appears to be a strong contender in the standalone VR headset market, but it will face stiff competition from high-end options like the Apple Vision Pro and budget-friendly alternatives such as the Meta Quest 3, which currently retails for $499.99 on Amazon.

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  • Valve Set to Reveal Deckard Steam Frame VR Headset This Week

    Valve Set to Reveal Deckard Steam Frame VR Headset This Week

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve’s upcoming VR headset, known as Deckard, may have received its official title but details remain undisclosed.
    2. Speculation about an announcement is fueled by hints from VR YouTubers and community members, including a special report scheduled for September 17.
    3. VR YouTuber Nathie hinted at a trip to Seattle, potentially linking to Valve’s location and upcoming developments.
    4. Clues from recent SteamVR updates include references to ‘Frame’ interfaces, suggesting progress on the headset.
    5. Valve is reportedly securing a new trademark for the Steam Frame, indicating an official reveal may be imminent.

    For a while now, there have been buzzes about Valve’s upcoming VR headset, which is often referred to as Deckard. It seems that Deckard is the internal name for the headset, and it may have recently received its official title. Since Valve has not yet disclosed any details regarding the headset, everything is still based on guesswork, but it appears we might not have to wait too long for an official announcement.

    Possible Update Coming Soon

    As noted by Reddit user ‘___Steve,’ Valve might be gearing up for some kind of announcement regarding the Deckard, or whatever the final name will be. This information comes from well-known VR YouTuber habie147, who concluded their recent video by stating, “I will see you next, on Wednesday. Special report incoming. First time ever Wednesday posting. Big deal. Set an alarm. Alert the Post Office.”

    Hints from the VR Community

    To further spark interest, another VR YouTuber, Nathie, shared on Threads on September 7 that they are excited about an upcoming trip to Seattle, hinting they could be visiting Bellevue, where Valve is located. In addition, Norman Chan from Tested tweeted a puzzling message on BlueSky on September 10, which might relate to the next Half-Life game. They mentioned, “plateau? more like mesa.”

    All these clues suggest that an update concerning the Steam Frame, Valve’s next VR headset, may be coming on Wednesday, September 17.

    Speculations and Clues

    While these events could be random and unrelated to any Steam Frame update, the timing does seem notable. Back in 2019, Valve kept quiet about the Index VR headset until it was unexpectedly introduced during a livestream by Facebook (now Meta).

    Additionally, the recent updates for SteamVR have included many references to ‘Frame’ interfaces and menus. Valve has also been working on securing a new trademark for the Steam Frame with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Whether or not an announcement will happen this week, it looks like the company is getting closer to officially revealing something new.

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  • Valve Deckard: New Steam Frame Name for Index Successor Revealed

    Valve Deckard: New Steam Frame Name for Index Successor Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve has not released new hardware recently, with the Steam Deck OLED being the latest device.
    2. There are rumors about new gadgets like the Valve Deckard headset, Steam Controller 2, and Steam Deck 2, but some have been dismissed by Valve executives.
    3. The Valve Fremont has appeared on Geekbench, rumored to be a home console, but is not expected to match the power of current mini-PCs.
    4. Valve is attempting to trademark the name “Steam Frame” for various hardware categories, indicating potential new products.
    5. Industry experts suggest “Steam Frame” may be linked to Valve’s upcoming Deckard device, with recent updates to SteamVR hinting at new user interfaces.

    Valve has not put out any new hardware for quite a while now. The Steam Deck OLED is still the latest device that the company has released. However, there have been many leaks and speculations about new gadgets being developed. While devices like the Valve Deckard headset, Steam Controller 2, and Steam Deck 2 seem to be promising, some others have been labeled as irrelevant by a Valve executive.

    New Device Rumors

    Another gadget, named Valve Fremont, has shown up on Geekbench several times over the past year. It’s believed to be some type of home console, but it is not anticipated to be as strong as the current AMD Strix Halo mini-PCs, such as the GMKtec EVO-X2, which is currently priced at $1,499.99 on Amazon. Just a day ago, a Reddit user called u/Crafty-Average-586 posed a question in the r/SteamDeck community, asking if ‘Steam Frame’ would be ‘a good name’ for a new piece of hardware.

    Trademark Application

    This mention of ‘Steam Frame’ was initially waved off by r/SteamDeck members, as it seemed unrelated to ongoing discussions. Yet, Valve has recently been seen trying to trademark that name with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). A screenshot shared below indicates that Valve aims to secure the term ‘Steam Frame’ for various categories, including:

    – computer hardware
    – computer networking hardware
    – computer peripherals
    – computer hardware and computer software for the reproduction, processing, and streaming of audio, video, data, text, and multimedia content.

    Future Possibilities

    The exact scope of what Steam Frame entails is still vague based on that description alone. However, industry watchers like Brad Lynch suggest that Steam Frame could be the branding for Valve’s upcoming Deckard device. In light of this, recent updates to SteamVR have introduced multiple mentions of ‘Frame’ user interfaces and menus. Sadly, more specific information about Valve’s planned VR headset is still elusive, despite a lot of evidence emerging from data mining activities over the past few years.

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    Valve Deckard: New Steam Frame Name for Index Successor Revealed

     

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