SteamVR Beta 2.0.1 is now available as of September 25th, and it’s filled with fantastic new features and improvements that are going to enhance your VR experience.
One of the most notable changes is the new user interface. It’s now more consistent with Steam and Steam Deck, and it includes a number of new features, such as an updated keyboard with support for new languages, emojis and themes, and integration with Steam Chat and Voice Chat. Another great new UI feature is floating overlay windows. These windows can be interacted with even when the dashboard is hidden, making it easier to access information or perform tasks without having to leave your game or experience.
Valve has also made a number of bug fixes and performance improvements in the latest SteamVR Beta. For example, a crash on exit issue for some Unity titles has been fixed and the system layer resolution limit has been increased. If you’re a Meta headset user, you’ll appreciate the specific changes that have been made for you. For example, the SteamVR IPD slider is now hidden, since Meta already shows one.
Overall, SteamVR Beta 2.0.1 is a significant update that brings a number of excellent new features that we’ve been waiting for as well as general improvements to the overall experience. If you’re a VR enthusiast, be sure to opt into the beta and test out the new features.
To opt into the SteamVR Beta, follow the instructions in this article.
To opt into the Steam Client Beta, follow the instructions in this article.
If you encounter issues with this update, please post in the SteamVR Bug Report forum.
Valve has promised to continue working on SteamVR Beta 2.0.1 and to fix any kinks that may arise as more and more users test it. So if you’re a bug hunter, get your gear ready!
Why the Timing of This Update is Significant
The release of SteamVR Beta 2.0.1 comes just two days before Meta’s Connect 2023 event, where the company announced its new Quest 3 VR headset. This timing is significant for two reasons. First, it’s a clear sign that Valve is actively working on and enhancing its VR platform. That’s awesome news for all VR enthusiasts because it means we can look forward to exciting new features and improvements. Second, the launch of SteamVR Beta 2.0.1 can be seen as Valve confidently showcasing its strength and reminding Meta that it’s still a big player in the VR scene. Many enthusiasts still hold SteamVR as the top VR platform available, backed by Valve’s awesome and dedicated community of users and developers.
What to expect in future SteamVR updates
Valve has said that it’s “looking ahead” to SteamVR 2.0, and that it’s committed to making SteamVR the best VR platform possible. It’s almost certain that we’ll see even more features and improvements in future updates.
One of the more intriguing rumors that has been floating around for a while is the possibility of a new Valve VR headset. Valve has reportedly been working on a standalone VR headset codenamed Deckard, and some sort of Valve device has been spotted passing through South Korea’s National Radio Research Agency. This suggests that a release could happen in the very near future.
If Valve does release a new VR headset, it’s likely to be a major game-changer for the VR industry. Valve is known for its high-quality hardware and software, and its re-entry into the market would be a great boost for the industry as a whole. Let’s keep our fingers crossed that the latest SteamVR update will bring us a step closer to the release of a new headset!