Valve Reportedly Bringing Steam Machines with Project “Fremont”
Recent leaks suggest that Valve could be gearing up to relaunch the Steam Machines concept, this time with a new device codenamed “Fremont.” A Steam Deck kernel update has revealed references to a mysterious device featuring an HDMI port directly connected to its graphics chip. While specific hardware details are sparse, this discovery hints at a standalone machine running SteamOS with the ability to connect seamlessly to an external display.
Tech leaker Brad Lynch has shed additional light on the kernel patch. It describes a standard HDMI port that bypasses USB entirely and instead connects to the GPU. This design strongly suggests Fremont isn’t a new docking station for the Steam Deck or a portable device. Instead, it seems like a dedicated home gaming machine with HDMI output as a primary feature.
Adding to the intrigue, the leak also mentions ChromeOS code embedded within Fremont’s software. It’s unclear whether Valve is planning some level of ChromeOS or Android integration, or if the software is merely there to handle specific background functions.
Additionally, the code highlights a development platform known as “AMD Lilac,” which has been spotted on benchmarking sites throughout 2023. Many tests involving AMD Lilac show Radeon 740M integrated graphics delivering performance far beyond the Steam Deck. However, Valve isn’t the sole user of Lilac, so it’s unclear whether it directly reflects the hardware Fremont will use.
Revisiting Steam Machines with Improved SteamOS
If Fremont proves to be a compact PC, console, or HTPC-style device, it could mark Valve’s second attempt at creating a console-like platform powered by SteamOS. Back in 2013, Valve partnered with hardware manufacturers to launch Steam Machines, custom gaming PCs based on an early version of its Linux-based operating system. However, they failed to capture significant market interest, partly due to lackluster performance, developer support, and competition from established consoles.
But times have changed. The success of the Steam Deck showcased just how far SteamOS has come, providing a smoother experience for installing and playing PC games with controllers. A fresh device running today’s version of SteamOS might have a better chance of succeeding where its predecessors didn’t.
New Controller Concepts and Possible VR Integration
A new control method could also be part of Fremont’s potential success story. Valve has been working on updates to its hardware ecosystem, including leaks about a successor to the discontinued Steam Controller. Rendered designs for the new controller show a familiar gamepad layout enhanced with trackpads similar to those on the Steam Deck. These trackpads could offer expanded control options for both casual and complex gameplay.
Furthermore, there have been leaks about motion controllers designed for Valve’s rumored standalone VR headset. Should Fremont integrate any VR capabilities, these motion controllers—combined with the new SteamOS device—could strengthen Valve’s position in both flat-screen and VR gaming spaces.
A Sign of More to Come?
Altogether, the evidence suggests Fremont might reintroduce Valve’s vision for living-room-based gaming PCs, potentially offering a powerful alternative to traditional consoles. While the details remain speculative, the combination of SteamOS improvements, hardware updates, and new input devices could make Fremont a compelling option for gamers looking beyond handheld or traditional gaming setups. If things go according to plan, Valve may once again have a shot at turning Steam Machines into a viable part of their ecosystem.
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