SteamVR 2.0 Beta: Valve Introduces Core Features to Virtual Reality

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Valve Surprises with Beta Release of SteamVR 2.0

Valve, the renowned gaming company, has finally released a beta version of SteamVR 2.0 after a silence regarding VR. This major upgrade brings core capabilities of the platform into the realm of virtual reality, aligning SteamVR with the modern Steam and Steam Deck experiences.

Initially planned for release in 2020, Valve’s reputation for operating on “Valve Time” meant that the development took longer than expected. However, three years later, SteamVR 2.0 has finally been released in beta form, much to the excitement of VR enthusiasts.

Valve's SteamVR 2.0 — Image courtesy Valve

SteamVR 2.0 brings many long-awaited features to the platform’s interface. According to Valve, most of the current features in Steam and Steam Deck are now part of SteamVR. This includes essential functionalities such as chats, voice chats, the modern Steam Store, and the Library. Additionally, the update introduces an improved keyboard with emojis, themes, and support for more languages.

Valve considers this beta release as just the first step in the journey of SteamVR 2.0, and promises to share more updates in the coming weeks and months based on user feedback. As with all betas, Valve plans to continuously improve the platform before its eventual full public launch.

How to Install the SteamVR 2.0 Beta

If you can’t wait to try out the SteamVR 2.0 beta, you can opt in by following these steps:

Steam Beta:

Open Steam and click ‘Steam’ in the menu bar.
Go to Settings > Interface > Client Beta Participation.

Select ‘Steam Beta Update’ as the Client Beta Participation option.
Restart Steam for the changes to take effect.

SteamVR Beta:

Open your Steam library and right-click on SteamVR.

Choose Properties > Betas > Beta Participation.
Select ‘beta – SteamVR Beta Update’ as the Beta Participation option.
Close the window, and SteamVR will begin updating to the beta branch.

A Glimpse into Valve’s Future?

While SteamVR 2.0 primarily focuses on improving the VR interface, recent developments suggest that Valve has been working on a standalone VR headset as well. Although the release date remains uncertain, it’s an exciting prospect for VR enthusiasts and fans of Valve’s technology. However, considering Valve’s infamous “Valve Time,” we may have to wait a little longer to get our hands on the headset.

In conclusion, the release of SteamVR 2.0 beta marks a significant upgrade for Valve’s virtual reality interface, bringing it in line with their latest Steam and Steam Deck experiences. By incorporating long-missing features and introducing improvements, Valve aims to enhance the VR experience for users. As we look forward to future updates and developments, it’s an exciting time for both Valve and VR enthusiasts.

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