Valve Launches Native Steam Link App for Apple Vision Pro

Valve has announced the release of a native Steam Link app for Apple’s Vision Pro, bringing the company’s local network game-streaming service to the mixed reality headset. The app allows users to wirelessly stream 2D games from their Steam library on a nearby Mac or PC directly to the Vision Pro display.

The native visionOS application is currently available in beta through TestFlight, Apple’s platform for distributing pre-release software. This move provides a more streamlined experience for users compared to previous third-party tools, such as ALVR, which were previously used to achieve similar results on the hardware.

Technical Specifications and Capabilities

According to Valve, the current beta version of the app includes several technical enhancements to improve the streaming experience on visionOS. These include improved network performance and the ability to stream content at resolutions up to 4K.

A specific feature of the native app is the ability for users to dynamically adjust the curve of the display in panoramic mode, allowing for a more customizable virtual screen layout when playing games.

the Steam Link app for Vision Pro is strictly for 2D streaming. It does not support VR content or SteamVR games. The app is designed to replicate the experience of playing games on a traditional 2D display, such as a computer monitor or television, within the headset’s virtual environment.

Platform Context and Integration

The expansion to Vision Pro follows Valve’s existing deployment of Steam Link on other Apple platforms, including the iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple TV. These applications allow users to sync controllers and play Steam games over a local network from Windows, Linux, or Mac gaming PCs.

The arrival of a native app addresses previous criticisms regarding the Vision Pro’s limited connectivity to external gaming and media devices. By providing a direct path to a massive library of PC games, Valve is extending the reach of the Steam platform while increasing the available content for visionOS users.

While Valve has not announced any plans to support SteamVR games on the Vision Pro, the native app is seen as establishing the groundwork for potential future developments in VR support.

Current Availability

The Steam Link app for Vision Pro is not yet listed on the general App Store. Interested users must sign up for the beta via TestFlight to access the software. This allows Valve to refine network performance and display settings before a wider public release.

• Platform: visionOS (Apple Vision Pro)
• Status: Beta (via TestFlight)
• Supported Content: 2D Steam Library games
• Unsupported Content: VR/SteamVR titles
• Max Resolution: 4K