here is finally the beta of SteamVR 2.0

With a (very small) delay of three years, the SteamVR 2.0 beta is finally here. The latter allows the VR interface to partly catch up with the desktop version of Steam or even the SteamOS experience.

Reuniting, visually and in terms of functionality, SteamVR with the desktop version of Steam, and the Steam Deck software environment, is a bit of Valve’s objective for its interface dedicated to virtual reality. Expected in 2020, the SteamVR 2.0 beta therefore arrives with the start of the 2023 school year, three years late, of course, but also with the ambition of bringing the best of Steam to VR, while filling gaps which were becoming more and more more frustrating.

Valve specifies that with this update, “ most current Steam and Steam Deck features are now part of SteamVR», reportsRoadtoVR. This catch-up primarily concerns conversations, voice chats, as well as the Steam Store and the latest version of the library, which are therefore arriving on SteamVR. The specialized site further emphasizes that this beta also adds an updated keyboard (including emojis), but also new themes and support for additional languages.

Valve promises, it’s just the beginning

“This is just the beginning of SteamVR 2.0’s journey, and we’ll have more to share in the weeks and months to come as we gather feedback and work on these new features“, explains Valve. “This beta will give us a chance to iron out the kinks as more people try it. As with all betas, this means that SteamVR 2.0 will get better and better as we prepare it for its full public launch“.

Equally interesting, these interface improvements also suggest that Valve is still working on a standalone VR headset, RoadtoVR notes. Clearly, Valve could have much more in mind than just new software features. We may learn more in the coming months.

In the meantime, if you want to install the SteamVR 2.0 beta on your PC, here is the procedure:

• Open the Steam Library, right-click on SteamVR, go to Properties > Beta > Beta Participation
• Set beta participation to “beta – SteamVR Beta Update”
• Once the window closes, SteamVR will start updating to said beta.