THE CRUNCH
Valve developer Jeff Leinbaugh has confirmed the company is exploring aftermarket accessories for the Steam Frame VR headset, including a potential strap with a larger or hot-swappable battery and a return to the Index-style off-ear audio system. The current Steam Frame strap houses the battery and speakers, but Valve is looking at designs that could replace these components to improve battery life and audio quality.
Leinbaugh stated that everything in the strap, including the battery and audio, is a potential area for future replacement. This follows prior rumours of a Steam Frame Enthusiast Kit, which would allegedly include a new strap design with hot-swappable batteries. In testing, the Steam Frame was found to run for around two hours at most on its 21.4Whr battery.
Valve has also launched a Steam Frame Ergonomic Accessories Kit for $59 / £59, which includes a top headstrap, knuckle-style controller grips, and a larger ambient light blocker. While the company has not confirmed the existence of the Enthusiast Kit, Leinbaugh's comments suggest it is a high priority for Valve's future plans.