Key Highlights
- The Valve Steam Frame VR headset is tipped to launch this week on November 12.
- The device has been previously known as the Valve Deckard and could come with impressive new first-party games.
- Latest leaks suggest that the Valve heet could be shown off “This week. More specifically on Wednesday,” according to a reliable source.
- Valve’s upcoming VR headset is expected to be a standalone device like the Meta Quest 3, capable of running PC games either through tethering or locally.
The Anticipation Builds: Valve’s Steam Frame VR Headset
It feels like we might finally see the light at the end of the tunnel for those eagerly awaiting a new VR headset from tech giant Valve. According to recent leaks, their upcoming device known as the Steam Frame—formerly dubbed Valve Deckard—is poised to launch this week on November 12.
A Timeline Teased
The timing is notable given that it’s right before the holiday season, a common period for gaming tech launches in hopes of becoming the ultimate gift under the tree. In previous years, Valve has dropped tech around this time, with the Steam Deck OLED making its debut on November 16, 2023.
Speculations and Leaks
Adding to the intrigue are new leaked images for the Steam Frame controller and a new Steam Machine. These leaks have sparked more speculation that an official announcement might be incoming. According to SadlyItsBradley, a reliable source for XR-related leaks, Valve could show off the device “This week. More specifically on Wednesday,” based on information from multiple sources.
What to Expect?
The Steam Frame is anticipated to be a standalone VR headset like the Meta Quest 3 but with added functionality, including the ability to play PC games either through tethering or running them locally on the device itself. There’s even talk of two models being introduced, similar to Valve’s own Steam Deck, where one could offer more affordable options while the other features upgraded specs.
Given these speculations, multiple leaks have pinned the price at around $1,200 (around £900 / AU$1,850). This is significantly higher than the Meta Quest 3 but still within a competitive range. Some suggest this could indicate a device with more utility beyond simple VR experiences, possibly even integrating more advanced PC gaming capabilities.
Valve’s Software and Ecosystem
The launch of such a high-end device raises questions about how it will fit into Valve’s broader ecosystem. The company has been making significant strides in VR technology, particularly with the success of the Steam Deck. How this new headset integrates with existing platforms and software is crucial for its market success.
Conclusion
While the exact timing remains uncertain, rumors and leaks continue to fuel excitement around Valve’s next big move in the VR space. For those eagerly awaiting a new frontier in virtual reality experiences, the coming week could bring some much-needed clarity. One thing is certain: if history repeats itself, we might indeed see something special from Valve.
