What you need to know
- Steam Frame starts at ,059 for 256GB, while the 1TB model jumps to ,299.
- Android games are supported, giving the headset access to existing Android APKs without requiring completely separate ports.
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 + 16GB RAM powers the headset, with SteamOS handling native games and compatibility layers.
Valve has finally revealed the pricing for its new wireless VR headset, the Steam Frame, which aims to bridge the gap between a standalone gaming device and a PC accessory. The starting price for the Steam Frame is ,059 for the 256GB version, while the 1TB model is priced at ,299. Each headset comes with tracked controllers, and Valve is sweetening the deal by bundling Half-Life: Alyx with the device.
One of the standout features of the Steam Frame is its support for Android games, allowing developers to use existing Android APKs to bring mobile titles to the headset. This means that the Frame can access a wide range of games without the need for developers to create separate versions for Valve’s device.
In terms of hardware, the Steam Frame is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and 16GB of RAM, with SteamOS managing native games and compatibility layers.
The Frame also offers wireless PC streaming with the included 6GHz dongle, providing users with the flexibility to play more demanding titles from their PC.
For storage options, users can upgrade from 256GB to 1TB for an additional 0, or utilize the microSD slot for expandable storage. This makes the larger model unnecessary for those primarily streaming games from a PC.
Valve had initially aimed to price the Steam Frame below the 9 Index, but due to rising memory and component costs, the final starting price exceeds that benchmark. The company’s pricing strategy has been influenced by the complexities of hardware costs, as evidenced by previous products like the Steam Machine.
Availability of the Steam Frame will be managed through a reservation system, with sign-ups open until September 17 and purchase invitations beginning on September 18.
At ,059, the Steam Frame is not targeting the budget VR market. Valve is banking on the device’s extensive game library, Android compatibility, wireless streaming capabilities, and standalone features to justify its premium price point.
