Following speculation prior to the announcement, Valve has finally revealed the new hardware lineup for Steam: a revamped controller, a hybrid PC-console known as the Steam Machine, and a fresh VR headset — the Steam Frame. Characterized as a “streaming-first” wireless VR headset, the Steam Frame includes controllers that are compatible with your entire Steam library. They feature a divided gamepad design, providing a joystick for each hand, reminiscent of the Meta Quest 3 and 3s controllers, but clad in an all-black aesthetic adorned with Steam buttons and logos, as expected.
What makes the Steam Frame particularly thrilling is its solution to a prevalent issue with VR systems concerning the visual experience. The Frame is equipped with a 6GHz wireless adapter for both VR and non-VR streaming. This 6GHz adapter enables wireless streaming functionality. Unlike the conventional methods of connecting to a PC via DisplayPort or HDMI, the Frame utilizes the wireless adapter. This establishes a dedicated endpoint for your VR headset, but additionally, the Frame can connect through a separate general internet connection to eliminate challenges you might encounter via your local Wi-Fi network.
The general connection facilitates game downloads, updates, access to the store, and other essential online functions. The 6GHz adapter’s role is to synchronize the audio and visual streams, ideally minimizing lag or connectivity problems. When engaging in VR gaming, such connection issues can be quite disruptive.
The appeal of the Steam Frame as a noteworthy advancement
Naturally, the Steam Frame also allows for standalone usage, similar to rival VR headsets. It’s driven by a Snapdragon 8 Series processor and boasts 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM — sufficient power for playing VR games directly on the device instead of streaming, should you choose. It operates on SteamOS, akin to the Steam Deck or the new Steam Machine. Most importantly, it offers a legitimate means of playing PC VR games without the need for a tethered connection, granting you greater freedom to move. This could alleviate many constraints associated with current PC VR configurations, particularly concerning performance when utilizing a wireless connection. The Steam Frame could rival the Meta Quest 3, which is among the finest VR headsets available today.
It comes with storage options of 256GB and 1TB, and it has a microSD card slot for potential expansion. Additionally, it incorporates a rechargeable 21.6 watt-hour lithium-ion battery, a rear USB-C port for charging, a detachable integrated head strap, and inside-out camera tracking. For visuals, it offers a 2160 x 2160 LCD resolution for each eye, featuring a refresh rate of 72 to 144Hz, an IPD target range of 60mm to 70mm, and a maximum eyeglasses width of 140mm. It also boasts a significant field of view of 110 degrees. In terms of connectivity, the Steam Frame is compatible with Wi-Fi 6E via the included 6GHz adapter, Wi-Fi 7 2×2, and Bluetooth 5.3.
Going forward, it appears that excitement is about to escalate for Steam users. While streaming Steam games on your phone is possible, why would you choose that over the Steam Frame in your living space? Alternatively, you could consider the recently announced Steam Machine to enjoy those games on your living room television instead.
