Steam Frame unboxing video leaks, hinting at release date of Valve VR headset

It’s been an agonizing wait for the Steam Frame release date. Some insiders speculate that the Qualcomm Snapdragon price hike may have prompted another delay. However, leaked unboxing and guide videos may suggest that the VR headset is finally nearing its launch.

A closer look at the Index successor

On social media, Steam Hardware Updates shared that clips surfaced in Valve’s Arm-based client. The account preserved at least 8 files featuring the Frame and accessories before they disappeared. Perhaps most noteworthy is the setup sequence for the VR headset itself.

Produced in the same style as the Steam Machine, the video shows buyers how to unpack and begin using the hardware. In addition to the headgear, the box contains two controllers, a spacer for glasses, a wireless adapter, an informational booklet, and a USB-C cable.

Valve instructs owners to plug the headset into a power source, turn it on, and then activate the controllers. After disconnecting the USB-C cable, gamers can continue with the remaining setup.

The other clips offer tips for achieving a perfect fit with the gear. Viewers also see the optional ergonomic accessories kit detailed for the first time. Finally, buyers learn how to wirelessly stream from the Steam Machine or PCs using the supplied adapter.

How soon is soon?

What these guides being ready mean for the Steam Frame release date is debatable. The same account believes that the manufacturer will not announce anything on August 19th. For the Steam Controller, a dataminer found an entry in Valve’s backend referencing an unboxing about two weeks before launch.

Time is starting to run short for the company to meet its summer deadline. Recently, a large batch of VR games has been verified to run smoothly on the headset. That followed FCC certification, another necessary step to ship the product in the U.S. Yet concerns remain that after the Qualcomm development, the Steam Frame price will test budgets.