Steam Deck 2: Latest News and Updates
- On November 9, 2023, Valve unveiled the Steam Controller and Steam Frame, new input devices building on the technology pioneered with the Steam Deck.
- The Steam Controller represents a reimagining of Valve's 2015 controller, incorporating features designed to address user feedback.
- The controller will feature customizable faceplates and back paddles, allowing for extensive personalization.
“`html
Valve Announces Steam Controller and Steam Frame, Hints at Future handheld Improvements
introduction
On November 9, 2023, Valve unveiled the Steam Controller and Steam Frame, new input devices building on the technology pioneered with the Steam Deck. While remaining tight-lipped about a direct Steam Deck successor – often referred to as the “Steam Deck 2” – Valve representatives indicated that lessons learned from the Steam Deck are informing the development of all future hardware. The announcement came during a press briefing where Valve deliberately steered conversation away from direct discussion of a new handheld.
The Steam Controller: A Return to Form
The Steam Controller represents a reimagining of Valve’s 2015 controller, incorporating features designed to address user feedback. Key improvements include new haptic feedback and, crucially, drift-resistant Hall effect joysticks. These joysticks, utilizing technology called TMR (Triple Magnetic Resonance), aim to eliminate the common issue of analog stick drift, a frequent complaint among gamers. Valve previously used Hall effect sensors in the Steam Deck, but the TMR implementation is a further refinement.
The controller will feature customizable faceplates and back paddles, allowing for extensive personalization. Pricing and release date have not yet been announced.
Steam Frame: Modular VR Input
The Steam Frame is a modular VR input system designed to provide precise tracking and haptic feedback for virtual reality experiences. It consists of two “wands” that can be used independently or combined for more complex interactions.Like the Steam Controller, the Steam Frame utilizes the new drift-resistant TMR Hall effect joysticks. Valve emphasizes the Steam Frame’s open design, allowing developers to create custom attachments and configurations.
Valve intends the Steam Frame to be a versatile tool for both gaming and professional VR applications. Release date and pricing details are pending.
The Steam Deck’s Influence
Throughout the briefing, Valve representatives consistently highlighted the Steam Deck as a crucial learning experience. Pierre-Loup Griffais, a Valve software engineer, explicitly stated that the Steam Deck’s development informed the design of both the Steam Controller and Steam Frame.Though, when directly questioned about a Steam Deck 2, Griffais deflected, stating, “Steam Deck is not what we’re here to talk about today.”
Steve Car, a Valve hardware engineer, acknowledged that the company is “always thinking about Steam Deck and ways to improve it in the future,” but offered no concrete details. This cautious approach suggests that Valve is actively exploring future handheld iterations, but is not yet ready to announce them.