In the latest SteamOS 3.8.9 Beta: Second Clutch update, developers added an item described as "initial support for future Steam Machine hardware". Valve does not disclose details of the new feature, but the very fact that such support appeared in the test version of the operating system indicates a high degree of readiness of the device for launch.
Earlier, users discovered a new Welcome Tour in the Steam infrastructure, which, according to insiders, is designed to familiarize owners of the future console with the system after the first power-on.
Steam Machine will be part of Valve's new hardware lineup. In addition to it, the company has already released an updated Steam Controller and is preparing to introduce the Steam Frame VR headset. Initially, both devices were expected earlier, but the launch, reportedly, was postponed due to the rising cost of components, primarily RAM.
The main intrigue surrounding Steam Machine and Steam Frame remains the price. After a sharp increase in the cost of memory and storage, many manufacturers were forced to revise their pricing policies. In recent months, Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo have raised the prices of their consoles. Valve also increased the price of Steam Deck.