Steam Frame release date confirmed by Valve insider, with review units now out

Gamers desperate for news on Valve’s VR headset may soon hear an official update. Reliable insider SadlyItsBradley appeared on a Gamertag VR podcast to discuss recent leaks. He verified reports of a September Steam Frame release date and said the company had already mailed review samples.

Pre-orders imminent?

SadlyItsBradley acknowledged there was confusion about when the Index successor might finally emerge. However, he is confident rumors pointing to a mid-September launch window are accurate. It would likely start shipping on September 14th, after pre-orders open a week earlier.

The conversation also divulged that the media had begun accepting units a day prior to the podcast’s recording. That would roughly match the time testers had with the Steam Machine before the mini PC left warehouses to fulfill orders.

Influencers like Linus Tech Tips have given subtle hints that Steam Frame reviews are in the works. A photo of a tired Linus with a red streak across his forehead surfaced. The implication is he had been immersed in VR games, including the titles added to Valve’s Great on Frame page.

Signs that a launch is near

A more cryptic leak from the Steam Hardware Updates account specified August 24th as the day reviewers first received units. Other evidence suggests the long wait for the Steam Frame release date is nearing its end.

Recently, an email sent to a VR game developer appeared on Reddit and social media. It indicated an unannounced sale on Valve’s marketplace is set for September 14th to the 21st. The event would be an opportunity to stock up on software compatible with the new head-mounted display.

All requirements for a launch seem to be in place. The manufacturer has been importing large quantities of an unidentified VR headset for months. In late July, word also broke about the Frame’s FCC certification.

When pre-orders eventually open, Valve must settle another debate surrounding the hardware. SadlyItsBradley couldn’t offer insight on the Steam Frame price, but expects an MSRP north of $1000.