SteamVR 2.0 Finally Here: Bringing a New Store UI for Consistent Experience Across All Valve Devices
Valve is finally rolling out SteamVR 2.0, bringing a unified store UI that matches the mainline Big Picture mode interface and the one on the Steam Deck. The new interface makes it simpler to access notifications, chat messages, and other content while wearing a VR headset. This adds to the growing list of features Valve is aiming to provide in an effort to create a consistent experience across all of its devices.
The new store UI comes with changes both for the in-game menu and the store itself. The in-game menu has been updated to a much cleaner, more modern design. You can now quickly access your friends list and game library without having to go through multiple screens. The store has also been simplified to make it easier to browse and purchase games. It now sports a larger game library, and you can also sort by genre and price.
Not only is the store UI overhauled, but Valve has also added some new features to the SteamVR 2.0 experience. Keyboards in virtual reality can now be customised using the SteamVR Input system. This allows you to map the buttons of your controller to the keys of the keyboard. This can come in handy when navigating the store or typing in chat boxes.
Headset users will also now have access to a new Home organization system. You will now be able to change the layout of your virtual room, add furniture, edit the lighting, and move things around. This adds a new level of customization to the home environment, and lets you fully customize your SteamVR experience.
The SteamVR 2.0 update is being rolled out gradually. As of now, it is only available to users with HTC Vive and Oculus Rift headsets. However, Valve promises that it will eventually be available for users of all VR headsets. They have also said that they are actively working on making the experience more consistent across all devices. So expect more updates in the near future.
Now, with the new store UI and the many new features, SteamVR 2.0 has a lot to offer. It has been designed to provide a consistent experience across all of Valve’s devices, while at the same time adding new features that make the experience even better. There may be some bugs here and there, but overall the experience is much improved. We can only hope that Valve keeps up the good work and continues to roll out new updates in the near future.
