Early Hands-On With Valve’s Steam Frame VR Headset Leaks Ahead of Embargo
Valve’s highly anticipated Steam Frame VR headset has made an unexpected early appearance, thanks to a mistakenly published video from Linus Media Group’s ShortCircuit channel. The video, intended as a first impressions overview, was uploaded ahead of Valve’s official embargo and quickly taken down. However, it remained online long enough for viewers to save copies, and key clips are now circulating across social media platforms, offering an unplanned sneak peek at the device.
Unboxing and First Impressions of the Steam Frame
The leaked footage provides a comprehensive look at the Steam Frame’s design and features. Viewers are treated to an unboxing of the headset, a walkthrough of the included accessories, and a demonstration of the initial setup process. The video also covers the fit and comfort of the headset, as well as a range test to evaluate its wireless performance. While the video does not reveal the Steam Frame’s final retail price—information Valve has yet to announce—it does shed light on several important details about the hardware.
Accessory Pricing and Controller Details
One notable revelation from the video is the pricing for the Ergonomics Accessories Kit, which will be sold separately for $60. This kit includes an additional headset strap and replacement straps for the controllers, allowing users to customize their fit and comfort. Another key detail is that the Steam Frame’s controllers are powered by replaceable batteries, a departure from the built-in rechargeable batteries found in the Valve Index controllers. This change may appeal to users who prefer the convenience of swapping batteries during extended play sessions.
Steam Frame Launch Timeline and Recent Developments
Valve has been steadily preparing for the Steam Frame’s launch, with recent updates to Steam backend packages and the release of a stable SteamVR update signaling that the device is nearing release. While the leaked video does not confirm a launch date, previous reports from industry insiders have suggested September 14 as a possible release window. With anticipation building and official details expected soon, the Steam Frame is poised to become a significant addition to the VR landscape.
