Valve’s much-anticipated XR headset, codenamed “Deckard,” has been shrouded in mystery ever since it was first hinted at in 2021. Now, based on the latest insights from tech analyst and VR insider Brad Lynch (aka ‘SadlyItsBradley’), it looks like Valve is finally ramping up production for this eagerly awaited device.
While we still don’t know a lot about Deckard, the grapevine suggests it’s set to be a standalone headset that can also stream PC VR games wirelessly. This would pit it squarely against heavyweights like the Meta Quest and Apple’s Vision Pro.
Lynch, a frequent source for XR industry tidbits, reveals that Valve has been importing equipment to manufacture VR headset facial interfaces right here in the United States. “This equipment comes from Teleray Group, the same company that produced the gaskets for the Valve Index and HP G2 Omnicept,” Lynch shared on X.
The Valve Index has been around for almost six years now, so it’s unlikely Valve is planning any updates for their aging PC VR headset. This points to a focus on their next big venture in the XR market.
Interestingly, Valve’s decision to make key parts in the US might be a strategic move to avoid high tariffs on Chinese goods—tariffs that were recently enforced by previous US politics.
Further adding intrigue, Lynch notes that the manufacturing is taking place in the same US facility that used to produce the company’s Lighthouse 2.0 base stations. Valve vacated this site nearly two years ago. Lynch speculates, “Perhaps Valve intends to use this facility for new components during Deckard’s market run, avoiding tariff issues, or exploring new HMD gasket designs in-house. Although I doubt the latter since Valve’s R&D likely already has smaller scale equipment.”
The buzz around Deckard has been building for nearly four years, littered with leaks and rumors. But with Valve seemingly gearing up for production, it feels like we’ll finally see the curtain lifted soon.
In a November 2024 leak, 3D models discovered in a SteamVR update revealed a fresh VR motion controller, known as “Roy.” This design shifts from the traditional VR motion controller by incorporating a more familiar gamepad-style button layout, which could mean Deckard will provide a seamless input experience like that of the Steam Deck.
Then, this past February, well-known leaker and data miner ‘Gabe Follower’ suggested that Deckard is set for a release by the close of 2025, carrying a $1,200 price tag. Gabe Follower contends that this price means Deckard will be initially sold at a loss, predicting that it will run on a version of SteamOS tailored for VR, similar to the Steam Deck’s OS.
The unveiling of Deckard seems imminent, marking an exciting chapter ahead in the VR landscape.
