Even if a few attempts have failed so far, Valve apparently does not give up the topic of hardware development. Now there are reports about a switch-like mini PC.
Valve has mixed experiences with hardware. Everything looks chic in the VR area, but Steam Link and the Steam Controller were a shot in the oven. Now it apparently looks like Steam is tinkering with a mini OC in the format of the Nintendo Switch. At least that’s what a report by Ars Technica
The device apparently runs under the working title SteamPal, although the code name Neptune also appears. It is apparently an all-in-one PC with gamepad and touchscreen that has been in development for some time. The device should be able to run a whole bunch of games via Linux.
The attempt to produce a gaming PC in a compact console format a la Switch is of course not a new idea. However, a popular solution has not yet emerged. The SteamPal, so that’s the final name, is apparently still in the prototype stage.
The message fits at least with statements by Valve boss Gabe Newell, who already hinted at a console-related announcement later this year. It remains to be seen whether this will really become something tangible or whether SteamPal will eventually disappear in the ideas attic.