Valve’s Steam Frame VR headset has appeared in an early hands-on video accidentally published by Linus Media Group. The video went live on the ShortCircuit YouTube channel before the official embargo expired and was quickly removed, but copies and screenshots are already circulating online.
Presented as the team’s first 30 minutes with the Steam Frame, the footage shows the retail packaging, initial setup process, fit and a wireless range test. The headset features a large, glossy front visor, a fabric-covered head strap and a design that appears more streamlined than the original Valve Index. The box also contains two compact motion controllers with familiar analogue sticks, buttons and circular bodies.
One notable detail concerns power: the Steam Frame controllers use replaceable batteries instead of the integrated rechargeable cells found inside the Valve Index controllers. This should make it easier to continue playing without waiting for the controllers to recharge, although users will need spare batteries or rechargeable replacements.
Linus also reportedly confirmed that Valve will sell an optional Ergonomics Accessories Kit for $60. The package includes an additional headset strap and separate straps for the controllers. However, the leaked video did not reveal the price of the Steam Frame itself, which remains one of the biggest unanswered questions surrounding the new VR system.
Valve has recently updated several Steam backend packages and released a stable SteamVR update, suggesting that the Steam Frame is getting close to launch. An insider previously mentioned September 14 as a possible release date, but Valve has yet to confirm either the timing or the final retail price.
via techpowerup