Valve’s hardware offensive: Steam Machine, Steam Controller and Steam Frame headed for spring
Valve has announced a new lineup of hardware aimed at expanding its presence in living‑room and VR gaming. The reveal includes a console‑style Steam Machine, an updated Steam Controller and a new Steam Frame VR headset — all expected to arrive in the spring.
The Steam Machine is positioned as a compact, TV‑focused PC running SteamOS. Valve says it will offer front ports for easy access and modern display/network outputs on the back. Early messaging frames the device as more powerful than the Steam Deck and as a local streaming hub for other Steam devices.
What we know so far
- Steam Machine: a console‑style SteamOS PC designed for the living room; Valve pitches it for TV gaming and streaming to other Steam devices.
- Steam Controller: a wireless pad that brings Deck‑style inputs (trackpads, gyro, sticks and buttons) to couch play, with per‑game customization.
- Steam Frame (VR): Valve’s new headset that targets both standalone play and streaming from PCs — part of Valve’s broader hardware ecosystem push.
Why this matters
Valve is building an ecosystem that connects handhelds, TVs and VR headsets under Steam — a strategy that could appeal to players who want PC game compatibility without building a desktop. If pricing and performance align, Valve’s hardware may present a strong alternative to current console and headset offerings.
Open questions
- Exact pricing and regional availability for all devices.
- Real‑world performance, thermals and acoustics for living‑room use.
- How well streaming features perform over consumer networks and how many Steam titles will be fully supported.
We’ll update this post as Valve reveals full specs, pricing and release dates. For official info, check Valve.
Discussion: Would you consider replacing a console with Valve’s Steam Machine and Steam Controller, or is a traditional console or custom PC still your go‑to? What price or features would make you switch?