Valve’s newly announced Steam Frame VR headset runs on an ARM-based variant of SteamOS, a Linux-based operating system that powers Valve hardware. The device uses a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset paired with 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM, running a streamlined version of Valve’s custom SteamOS designed specifically for VR gaming.
Open-Source SteamOS and Compatibility Layers
SteamOS itself is an open source Linux distribution based on Arch Linux, known as SteamOS 3.0, which uses a rolling release model providing frequent updates and expanded hardware support. For the ARM-based Steam Frame, Valve developed a new compatibility layer called FEX that emulates x86 software for the ARM architecture, allowing most Windows games to run smoothly despite the inherent architecture differences.
Additionally, the system supports Proton, Valve’s well-established compatibility tool that enables Windows games to run on Linux-based SteamOS. The headset can also run Android applications through integration with the Android Open Source Project environment, enabling sideloading of VR apps originally developed for platforms like Meta Quest.
Streaming-First Design
While the Steam Frame can run games natively on its ARM chipset, its primary design is for “streaming-first” gameplay. It ships with a wireless 6GHz dongle to facilitate high-quality, low-latency streaming of more demanding VR and non-VR games from a powerful gaming PC, offloading processing and extending battery life.
Implications for VR and PC Gaming
This open and flexible software architecture exemplifies Valve’s commitment to an extensible hardware ecosystem centered around SteamOS. The Steam Frame’s ARM-based design also hints at potential future expansions of SteamOS towards other ARM-powered handheld and portable devices, opening new horizons for PC and VR gaming beyond traditional x86 systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What OS does Steam Frame run?
Steam Frame runs a modified version of SteamOS 3.0 based on Arch Linux adapted for ARM processors.
What hardware does Steam Frame use?
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 ARM chipset with 16GB LPDDR5X RAM.
How does Steam Frame run Windows games?
Via Proton compatibility layer and a new FEX emulation layer that runs x86 instructions on ARM.
Can Steam Frame run Android VR apps?
Yes, thanks to integration with the Android Open Source Project runtime and sideloading support.
Is SteamOS open source?
Yes, SteamOS is a Linux-based open-source operating system with proprietary Steam client software on top.
Conclusion
Valve’s Steam Frame VR headset pushes the boundaries of portability and compatibility by integrating an ARM-based SteamOS with sophisticated emulation and streaming technologies. This approach ensures players enjoy a vast range of VR, PC, and Android games on a unified platform, positioning Steam Frame as a versatile device for the evolving gaming landscape.