Steam Frame unboxing videos leak as Valve’s launch appears imminent

Valve appears to be getting ready to launch the Steam Frame, as leaked setup videos have surfaced showing the unboxing and initial setup process for its first standalone VR headset.

The videos were spotted by the Steam Hardware Updates account on X and cover several parts of the setup process, including IPD adjustment, controller pairing, the wireless streaming adapter, and a glasses spacer. One clip also reveals an apparently unannounced Ergonomic Accessories Kit, which seems to include controller hand straps and an extended light blocker designed to create a tighter seal around the nose.

These don't appear to be concept renders or unfinished promotional material. Instead, they're polished, narrated videos resembling the hardware guides Valve has previously created for the Steam Machine and Steam Controller. More importantly, they were apparently embedded in the Steam client itself, suggesting they're intended to be shown to customers once the headset launches.

Valve quickly removed the videos in a subsequent update, but that didn't stop them from spreading. All three clips have already been reuploaded several times, giving us a closer look at what the Steam Frame experience will be like at launch. Here’s one such compilation from YouTube channel Tyriel Wood - VR Tech that includes all three:

The videos also reinforce several specifications Valve has already revealed. Steam Frame is powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and features two 2160 x 2160 LCD displays capable of running at up to 144Hz. It can operate as a standalone headset or connect wirelessly to a PC or Steam Machine through its dedicated Wi-Fi 7 streaming adapter.

Valve has been steadily preparing for the headset's arrival. Steam Frame received FCC certification late last month, while reports have also pointed to large shipments of units entering the US. Meanwhile, Valve has been expanding its "Great on Frame" compatibility program, highlighting games that work particularly well with the headset and adjusting requirements for developers creating standalone Frame content.

The launch has reportedly been complicated by the ongoing memory and storage shortage, which Valve previously acknowledged would affect Steam Frame alongside the Steam Machine. The latter eventually launched in June at $1,049 / 1,039€ / £879, considerably higher than earlier expectations.

Still, the appearance of these seemingly finished setup videos is perhaps the clearest indication yet that Steam Frame's launch is approaching. Valve has already revealed most of the hardware details, leaving two major questions unanswered: how much will it cost, and exactly when will it launch?

As always, for the latest news on Valve hardware, Steam Frame, VR gaming, and developments across the PC gaming industry, be sure to follow our dedicated hardware coverage.