Valve, the makers of Steam Machine, are still looking for RAM supply for the upcoming gaming hardware. Since last November’s announcement of Steam Machine, Steam Frame, and Steam Controller, a lot has changed in the gaming market when it comes to sourcing RAM and storage components.
Most of the world’s supply is horded by OpenAI, a company that is still losing $14B a year but refuses to let the RAM out. This has led to a ton of supply issues for companies like Valve, Sony, Microsoft, Nintendo, and many others who product gaming products.
Naturally, the shortage led to speculation that the Steam Machine might not make its 2026 release window.
Speaking at GDC Festival of Gaming, Valve reps stated that Steam Machine and other products are on track for 2026, but they are still looking acquire RAM.
Valve said it is “in the market” for RAM and casually joked about the shortages around the industry, by saying that there won’t be any hardware announcements at GDC 2026 unless they can get a bunch of RAM.
The limited supply and growing shortage of components is the biggest issue right now, and despite Valve reiterating 2026 launch window for its new products, it won’t be surprising at all if they push it to 2027, especially considering how oil isn’t the only thing that goes through the Straits of Hormuz.
Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft are expected to raise the prices of their gaming products in the coming months if RAM shortage is not fixed. However, the crisis is only getting worse and for now it is not expected to get better for at least 3 years.
While Valve may joke about the situation, the possible delays to Steam Machine, Steam Frame, and other products are a real worry, and possibility.
Do you think Steam Machine will launch in 2026?
