June 10, 2026, 7:57 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Valve is preparing to launch two new devices. With the Steam Machine and the VR headset Steam Frame, the company’s hardware offerings are set to expand in the coming months. Both products are currently expected to be released in the summer of 2026. Preparations for the market launch are already underway, while Valve simultaneously expands support for games on the new platforms.
Verification Program to Be Expanded
In conjunction with the release, Valve is expanding the well-known verification program of the Steam Deck. In the future, the Steam Machine and the Steam Frame will also be integrated into this system. Developers have dedicated areas for both platforms available in the Steamworks dashboard. According to the company, numerous games have already been reviewed.
The goal is to provide early clarity on which titles will be supported on the new devices. This aims to ensure a smooth transition to the additional platforms.
The Steam Machine is intended as a living room PC with SteamOS. According to Valve, the device is expected to be about six times more powerful than the Steam Deck. Since both products operate on the same software base, games with the “Deck Verified” status will automatically be supported on the Steam Machine.
For titles that do not perform adequately on the Steam Deck due to its performance, Valve plans additional testing. These evaluations specifically relate to the more powerful hardware of the Steam Machine.
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Steam Frame to Also Run Games Independently
With the Steam Frame, Valve is taking a slightly different approach. The VR headset is primarily intended for streaming PC games. Additionally, it can also run games independently.
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The verification program focuses precisely on this operating mode. If a game receives the corresponding rating, it applies to both VR titles and classic games. Valve aims to make the platform’s use straightforward.
Price Remains Uncertain
Valve has not yet provided any information on the price of the two devices. At the same time, hardware costs are under pressure. The background is the ongoing memory crisis, which has recently driven up prices.
The effects are already evident with the Steam Deck. The handheld was unavailable for an extended period and is now back on the market. However, the price is now significantly higher than at its initial launch. Compared to the suggested retail price from 2023, the device costs about 40 percent more, even though the hardware remains unchanged.
Nevertheless, many fans still hope for relatively affordable prices for the Steam Machine and Steam Frame. However, given the current developments, this scenario seems increasingly uncertain.