Xbox Boss Phil Spencer Praises Valve's New Hardware That Sorta Looks Like "Leaked" Xbox

GAMING NEWS

Valve’s newly announced lineup of gaming hardware has caught the industry’s attention—and Xbox boss Phil Spencer says Microsoft is all for it.

Valve’s new hardware slate includes the Steam Frame VR headset, a next-gen Steam Controller, and a compact Steam Machine designed for living room play.

“Gaming moves forward when players and developers have more ways to play and create, especially across open platforms,” Spencer said in a statement. “Expanding access across PC, console, and handheld devices reflects a future built on choice, core values that have guided Xbox’s vision from the start. As one of the largest publishers on Steam, we welcome new options for players to access games everywhere.”

The sentiment echoes Microsoft’s recent support of multi-platform gaming, and Spencer’s comments suggest Xbox sees Valve’s expanding hardware ecosystem as additive rather than competitive.

Xbox Employees Chime In

Senior Xbox social marketing manager Josh Stein also commented on the new Steam Machine—specifically its shape.

“All I can see is the ‘rumored’ leaks from 2019 of Series S designs haha. All hail the cube.” — Josh Stein

The cube-like design of Valve’s Steam Machine has drawn comparisons to early prototype mockups of the Xbox Series S, which never released in that form.

Valve’s 2026 Hardware Lineup

Valve announced three major devices arriving in 2026:

• A redesigned **Steam Controller**
• The compact **Steam Machine**, meant for TV and living room gaming
• The **Steam Frame**, a new VR headset

The reveal follows the success of the Steam Deck, which has helped establish Valve as a serious player in the gaming hardware market. Pricing for the new lineup has not yet been announced.

What About New Valve Games?

Alongside its new hardware, Valve is also developing **Deadlock**, a new MOBA currently running in a secretive invite-only alpha. No release window or full details have been confirmed.

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