The RAM Shortage Comes for Valve

Quick Overview

Valve confirmed that the planned early 2026 launch for the Steam Machine hardware and its associated controller will be delayed due to limited availability of critical components like memory and storage, leading to speculation about the PS5's DDR5 RAM and potential price increases.

Key Points: Valve confirmed the Steam Machine hardware and controller launch, initially set for early 2026, is delayed due to limited availability of critical components. The delayed components specifically mentioned include memory and storage, which are essential for the Steam Machine launch. The discussion touched on the possibility of the PlayStation 5's DDR5 RAM being a factor in supply constraints. The potential final price for the Steam Machine was debated, with guesses ranging from $899.99 to $1,000. The hosts noted that while the price might increase, AI is expected to fix problems and make jobs easier, even if it's a 'sucker' move. The conversation referenced a previous prediction that the PS5 would ship with DDR4 RAM, but it actually has DDR5, impacting component availability.

Context: The hosts, Lucy James and Kurt Indovina, discuss recent news regarding Valve's Steam Machine project during their podcast, 'Kurt & Lucy Gotcha Covered.' The conversation centers on an official announcement from Valve confirming a delay to the early 2026 launch window for the Steam Machine hardware and its dedicated controller, citing supply chain issues related to key components.

Detailed Analysis

Valve announced a delay for the Steam Machine hardware and controller, which was scheduled for early 2026, because of limited availability of critical components such as memory and storage. The hosts discuss this news, noting that while this is a setback, they hope AI will eventually solve problems and make tasks easier. Kurt speculates that the issue might be related to the fact that the PlayStation 5 utilizes DDR5 RAM, contrary to earlier predictions that it would use DDR4. This impacts the supply chain for similar components. They then pivot to guessing the final price, with Kurt suggesting $899.99, and the hosts agreeing that the price could hit $1,000, calling the situation a 'sucker' move overall, but acknowledging that game development/hardware is inherently expensive. They also mention a previous TV show where friends got certificates for acting in a house fire reenactment.