Valve reveals new Steam console, VR headset, and controller, set to launch in 2026
Valve has announced three new pieces of hardware for Steam: The console-like Steam Machine, a new virtual reality headset called Steam Frame, and a brand new version of the Steam Controller. They all run on SteamOS and are set to release sometime in early 2026. Prices have not been revealed yet.
Starting off with the Steam Machine, Valve confirmed that it’s six times more powerful than the Steam Deck and is able to play your entire Steam library, including AAA and indie titles. Games will be noted with a “Steam Machine Verified” tag if they play well on the console, similarly to the “Steam Deck Verified” tag. So, it's not quite a console, but not quite a PC either. According to Valve, "Once you sign in with your Steam account, your entire library will be there waiting for you."
As for the size, it’s a 6-inch cube that’s designed to fit under your TV or on your desk. It even has an LED strip to signal system status such as download progress.
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The Steam Frame is Valve's new wireless virtual reality gaming headset. It's designed to be “streaming” first and comes with controllers. Valve’s website says it offers “wireless, comfortable, lightweight VR for your Steam library.” Interestingly, Valve also says it can play VR and non VR titles. Just like the Steam Machine and Steam Deck, it’s also going to have its own “Steam Frame Verified” tag. The tag will help you see which games, VR or not, will work on the headset.
There’s a new feature called Foveated Streaming, which optimizes details where your eyes are looking. This feature uses low-latency eye tracking data to move the best quality pixels to align with your eyes, so that you experience better image quality.
Lastly, the brand new Steam Controller has gotten quite an overhaul compared to its 2015 version. It has your standard A,B,X, and Y buttons, along with your thumbsticks and direction pad. But it also features two large trackpads near the grips to simulate how computer mice move.
The thumbsticks use TMR technology to create a more responsive feeling and increase longevity. It also includes haptic feedback for a more immersive experience, as well as a grip-enabled gyro called Grip Sense. Players simply hold and release to toggle off gyro aiming.
It also comes with the Steam Controller Puck, which is a wireless transmitter that acts simultaneously like a charging station and a stable connection to your hardware.
In the meantime, the Steam Deck and Steam Deck OLED are still going strong for Valve. The handheld will also be compatible with the new hardware.
You can also watch the full announcement video on YouTube.
Topics Gaming Gadgets Video Games
George is a freelance gaming and tech writer. He started in 2019 and has written for places including Mashable, the New York Times, Rolling Stone, and Variety. For Mashable, George has reviewed new games like Ninja Gaiden 4, as well as the new ROG Xbox Ally X gaming handheld. In his career, George has also written guides, reviews, interviews, and features for a variety of gaming genres, including Japanese RPGs, first-person shooters, and action-adventure games. He has experience with all major gaming platforms, such as PC, PlayStation, Nintendo, and Xbox.
