Multiple VR concepts had been in the works Perhaps the most tantalizing mention of 'Deckard' came from a string that Lynch discovered in a SteamVR Linux ARM binary, which hints to, but doesn't outright confirm, some form of processing built into a new Valve VR headset-as opposed to sending calls to a connected system like a gaming PC. However, his speculation about this doesn't necessarily confirm anything about an upcoming wireless Valve VR system, since that speed rating matches the Wi-Fi 6 controller found in Oculus Quest 2 headsets. Lynch points to a DLL that can be found in public SteamVR filesets, which currently includes calls about 160MHz wireless signals. The word 'standalone' happens to describe Facebook's Oculus Quest platform, which can either wirelessly connect to a powerful PC or run software using its own weaker, built-in hardware. These options, dubbed 'prism' and 'standalone system layer,' have yet to be activated in meaningful ways, so their names and meaning remain a matter of speculation. The latter term, 'standalone,' implies that the hardware might work all by itself-as opposed to, say, being plugged into a computer or tracked by Valve's unwieldy SteamVR Tracking Boxes. The information gleaned by Lynch points to multiple iterations of this new code-named headset, including an updated 'proof of concept' version referenced this June, along with the ability to activate a 'Valve internal menu' that brings up two new SteamVR menu options. Ars can confirm the legitimacy of 'Deckard' as a code-named device worked on inside of Valve's headquarters.

The tip came in the form of a device code-named 'Deckard,' which is mentioned in SteamVR's publicly available branches from as far back as January. This week's information roundup comes courtesy of VR industry reporter and YouTube channel host Brad Lynch, who received a tip after tracking months of Valve patent applications. Sources familiar with matters at Valve have confirmed to Ars that information in the wild is legitimate-at least in terms of products being made within Valve's headquarters, even if those products don't ultimately see retail launches. What's in the future for VR headsets made by Valve, which launched the pricey, bulky, and impressive Valve Index in August 2019? The best information in the wild right now seems to be coming from Valve itself: data-mining discoveries and patent applications are adding up to something that looks like a brand-new Valve VR system with some form of built-in wireless functionality.

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