Valve's next VR headset may be preparing to launch before the end of 2025, with a new report claiming the rumored "Steam Frame" has entered mass production.
The next-gen VR headset, also referenced as Valve Deckard, is reportedly set to launch this year. This comes from the Chinese analyst group XR Research Institute (via UploadVR), who claim production has already begun on the headset, and we can expect 400,000 to 600,000 units per year.
As noted, this puts it along the same numbers as the Apple Vision Pro at around 400,000 units, after production had been cut. This points to more of a niche headset, and likely a pricey one, especially compared to the Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S, which are at least set to be in the millions.
Rumors of Valve's "Steam Frame" have been ramping up, with many recently believing it would be revealed during Meta Connect 2025. This didn't come to be, but the VR headset had also been rumored to launch by the end of 2025 before. According to known leaker Gabe Follower on X, it will apparently be priced around $1,200 / £950 / AU$1,900.
If the report is true, it's looking more likely that we'll finally see the long-rumored Valve VR headset. Recently, tipster SadlyItsBradley on X confirmed that Valve rebranded "SteamVR 'Overlays' to 'Frames,'" and seeing as Valve trademarked the "Steam Frame" moniker, it's likely that the next piece of hardware will be all about VR gaming.
A standalone VR headset?
Of course, it's worth taking this in with a pinch of salt, seeing as the "Steam Frame" was rumored to be revealed back in September. However, now that it's reported to have entered mass production, it's a good sign that the VR headset is well on its way.
We've seen many rumors of Valve's next headset, with a Valve product designer seemingly confirming work on a VR headset in an interview. The question is, will it be a standalone headset to take on the Meta Quest 3, or a headset that takes advantage of a link to a PC?
Rumors of a SteamVR Link Wireless Dongle on Reddit via TweakTown to wirelessly connect the "Steam Frame" to a PC to allow for higher-quality VR gaming, and SadlyItsBradley has also unveiled what the Roy controllers may look like.
In any case, it may not be much longer until we find out. Valve is expected to have many hugely anticipated products in the works, including its Steam Deck 2 and a new Steam "Fremont" console. But for now, we'll be keeping an eye out for a "Steam Frame" announcement.
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