Valve Launches New VR Headset, Steam Frame, Replacing Index Branding

REDMOND, Wash. – Valve has officially announced its new VR headset, the Steam Frame, replacing the Valve Index branding. The company aims to create a fresh identity with this device, distancing it from its predecessor.

Jeremy Selan, a Valve engineer, explained the decision during a visit to the company’s headquarters. “This is a new product. That’s one of the reasons we changed the name from Valve Index to Steam Frame, because we’re trying to do something new with this,” Selan said.

The Steam Frame is designed to operate both as a standalone device and an accessory for gaming PCs. It features its own Arm-based processor and runs on SteamOS, eliminating the need for a separate gaming PC for many users.

In contrast to the Index, which required setting up base stations and various sensors for tracking, the Steam Frame simplifies the VR experience. Users can quickly put on the headset and begin playing various games without complicated setups.

“I think in the Valve Index era, I would have to think about, before I picked up the device, what I wanted to play,” Selan noted. With the Steam Frame, he added, users can simply choose a game from their library, whether it’s VR or non-VR.

The headset supports wireless streaming from a nearby gaming PC, promising high fidelity visuals up to 144 Hz. It also boasts a significant upgrade in resolution compared to the Index, providing 2160 x 2160 per eye.

Despite its many enhancements, the Steam Frame does not include the Valve Index’s renowned BMR speakers. However, Selan emphasized that it aims to cater to a wider audience, inviting both hardcore VR fans and newcomers.

Gabe Rowe, another Valve engineer, clarified that this is not simply a version of the Valve Index. “This is saying, like, hey, there’s a whole set of people that want to get into VR and want to play non VR games as well as VR games,” Rowe stated.

While the headset is not set to launch until 2026, Valve has hinted that it will come in various storage options, including 256 GB and 1 TB. A microSD card slot will also allow users to expand storage without difficulty.

Valve positions the Steam Frame as a groundbreaking next step, stating, “We see Steam Frame as a streaming first headset.” Selan believes that the connection and feature enhancements will redefine how players experience VR.

Takeaway: Valve’s Steam Frame promises to make VR more accessible and streamlined, catering to various gaming preferences while introducing innovative features.