Valve has just provided a major update on its upcoming hardware lineup, including the Steam Frame, Steam Machine, and Steam Controller. Fans have been eager for details since the announcement in November, and the company has finally addressed some of the most frequently asked questions, particularly regarding launch timing, pricing, and new features.
Steam VR Game Deals & Sales Tracker
If you haven’t already, check out my new Steam VR Game Deals & Sales Tracker. I keep it updated daily so that you can always find the best deals on VR Games on Steam:
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Read their official post here: https://store.steampowered.com/news/group/45479024/view/625565405086220583?l=english
Launch Timing and Pricing
While Valve initially hoped to share concrete pricing and release dates by now, industry-wide memory and storage shortages have affected their plans. These shortages have increased component costs and limited availability, particularly they mention this impacting the Steam Machine and Steam Frame.
Despite this, Valve confirms that all three products are still on track for a first-half 2026 launch. Pricing and shipping dates are still being finalized, with updates promised as soon as possible.
Though this isn’t what we had hoped for. I’m happy for the transparency and a few months isn’t too big of a deal. We’ve all waited for things before and have experience delays. If you haven’t, now is the time to learn patience!
Steam Frame Highlights
The Steam Frame is the centerpiece of Valve’s latest hardware push, bringing new features and flexibility for PC and VR gamers:
- Foveated Streaming: A system-level feature that uses eye tracking to stream high-resolution visuals only where the player is looking. Unlike foveated rendering, which requires developer implementation, foveated streaming works with all games automatically and stacks with any existing foveated rendering support.
- Streaming and Media Support: SteamOS includes a built-in browser, allowing streaming services to run in theater mode.
- Modular Design: The Steam Frame’s modular architecture allows the community and third-party developers to expand and customize hardware features.
- Glasses and Prescription Lens Support: Many Valve employees use the Steam Frame with glasses without issue, and Valve is exploring prescription lens inserts ahead of launch.
Valve also confirmed that while the Valve Index is no longer being manufactured, existing owners will continue to receive support. I never did get a Valve but I know many people that will be happy with this confirmation.
One note that I did appreciate is that they will be working with 3rd Party companies for accessories as well. As my channel focuses heavily on accessories for the Meta Quest lineup, I’m really looking forward to testing and reviewing accessories for the Steam Frame once we get it.
Steam Machine Updates
The Steam Machine continues Valve’s push to bring high-performance gaming to the living room:
- Game Performance: Most Steam titles run smoothly at 4K 60 FPS with FSR. Some more demanding games may require lower framerates or additional upscaling. Valve is actively working on HDMI VRR, improved upscaling, and driver optimizations for ray tracing.
- Customization and Upgrades: The SSD (NVMe 2230 or 2280) and DDR5 memory are user-accessible and upgradeable.
- Faceplates and Mods: Valve plans to release CAD files and specifications so users and third parties can create custom faceplates and accessories.
My PC isn’t the most powerful so I have been closely watching the Steam Machine specs and updates. I’m really looking forward to getting one of these as well.
Steam Controller Features
The Steam Controller maintains compatibility with both Steam and non-Steam games through the Steam Overlay, allowing gamers to use the controller across a wide range of titles.
I am curious to see if this controller will be necessary if I’m already getting the Steam Frame. Will the controllers of the Frame be able to play on the Steam Machine as well? I’m interested to find out.
What’s Next
Valve will continue to update its Steam Hardware Blog with deep dives, feature highlights, and answers to additional questions leading up to launch. Fans can expect ongoing news and insights into all three products as the first-half 2026 release approaches.
Check out my Steam VR Game Deals & Sales Tracker!
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