Valve Delays Steam Machine Desktop and Steam Frame Headset Due to RAM Shortage
Valve Corporation has confirmed delays concerning its Steam Machine desktop and Steam Frame headset. The announcement comes amid ongoing RAM shortages that have significantly affected pricing and availability across the tech industry.
Impact of RAM Shortage on Launch
In mid-November last year, Valve initially unveiled its plans for the Steam Machine and the Steam Frame but withheld details regarding pricing and release dates. The company cited a surge in RAM and storage costs due to increased demand from the artificial intelligence sector.
Ongoing Uncertainty
This week, Valve reiterated that it is not yet ready to provide a timeline or pricing for its new products. The company aims to release both the Steam Machine and Steam Frame, along with the new Steam Controller, in the first half of the year. However, the situation surrounding component prices remains fluid.
Price Fluctuations in the Tech Industry
- RAM Prices: Prices have surged due to high demand, impacting various tech devices.
- Storage Costs: Similar trends are noted in storage components affecting availability.
- GPU Impact: Graphics processing units are also feeling the effects of increased memory prices.
In its recent blog update, Valve expressed the need to reassess its pricing and shipping schedules. They emphasized the lack of concrete launch dates was a direct result of these supply chain issues.
Future Plans
While enthusiasm around the Steam Machine and Steam Frame continues, Valve’s commitment to ensure precise pricing and launch dates shows its awareness of the market’s volatility. The company remains hopeful to secure stable prices for a successful launch later this year.