TL;DR
Valve has open-sourced the design for the Steam Machine’s e-ink display, enabling users to create custom screens. The project is available on GitLab under the MIT license, but Valve will not sell the displays directly.
Valve has officially open-sourced the design for the e-ink display used in the Steam Machine, making it accessible for anyone to build their own. The company released the hardware specifications and assembly instructions on GitLab under the MIT license, but clarified they will not produce or sell the display themselves. The project is available on GitLab under the MIT license, but Valve will not sell the displays directly, making it accessible for anyone to build their own.
Valve’s initiative, dubbed the “Inkterface”, includes detailed hardware specifications and assembly instructions available on their GitLab repository. The components required include an Adafruit ESP32 Feather with 2MB PSRAM, an Adafruit eInk Breakout Friend, and a 5.83-inch monochrome e-ink panel. Valve provided a demonstration video showing the assembly process, emphasizing that the project is open for community participation. The company emphasized that they will not manufacture or distribute the display units, leaving the hardware creation to third-party vendors and DIY enthusiasts.
In addition, JSAUX, a peripheral vendor, has teased plans to produce “Ink & Pixel” versions of the e-ink display, hinting at potential commercial options in the future. The open-source release aims to foster innovation and customization within the Steam Machine community, with the possibility of other accessory brands developing their own versions if the project gains popularity.
Expanding Customization for Steam Machine Users
This open-source release is significant because it enables DIY customization of Steam Machines, a niche but growing segment of gaming hardware. By providing the hardware specifications and assembly instructions publicly, Valve encourages community-driven innovation, which could lead to a variety of third-party e-ink displays tailored for different needs. It also lowers the barrier for hobbyists to experiment with alternative hardware modifications, potentially influencing future hardware accessory markets for gaming devices.
Furthermore, this move aligns with Valve’s broader strategy of supporting open hardware and software, fostering a more flexible ecosystem for gamers and modders alike. The ability to create custom e-ink screens could enhance user experience by providing low-power, always-on displays for notifications, game stats, or other information, without relying on proprietary or closed systems.
5inch e-Paper Display with Driver HAT, e-Ink Display 960 x 552, Black/White, SPI Interface,Compatible with Raspberry Pi/Ardui / STM32 / ESP32, Ideal for Price Tags, Shelf Labels, etc.
5inch e-Paper Display, 960 x 552, Black / White Display Color, SPI Interface, with Driver HAT, Based On…
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Valve’s Open-Source Hardware Initiatives and Community Engagement
Valve has historically shown support for open hardware and software projects, including the Steam Deck and various community modding efforts. The release of the Steam Machine e-ink display design follows previous initiatives to engage the community in hardware customization. The project first appeared in early reviews of Steam Machines, where reviewers received prototype units with the e-ink screen, sparking interest in DIY modifications.
Prior to this release, there was speculation about third-party vendors potentially creating compatible displays, but Valve’s move to open-source the design confirms their intention to foster community innovation rather than commercialize the hardware themselves. The project’s availability on GitLab under the MIT license ensures broad accessibility and encourages modifications and improvements from the community.
“We’re excited to see what the community will create with the Inkterface design. Our goal is to support open hardware development and empower users to customize their Steam Machines.”
— Valve spokesperson
ELECROW ESP32 E-Ink Display 2.13 Inch, CrowPanel E-paper HMI Display Compatible with Arduino IDE, E Ink Screen with 122×250 Resolution Black/White Color, Driven by SPI Interface (Without Acrylic Case)
Built-in ESP32-S3 Controller & SPI Interface – Comes with ESP32-S3 as the main MCU (up to 240 MHz)…
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Remaining Questions About Commercial Availability
It is still unclear whether third-party vendors will produce ready-made e-ink displays based on Valve’s design or if the DIY approach will remain the primary option. Valve has stated they will not manufacture or sell the displays, but the response from accessory makers such as JSAUX suggests commercial versions may emerge. The level of community adoption and the potential for widespread hardware compatibility also remain uncertain at this stage.
1pc 5.83 Inch Monochrome ePaper Display, 648×480 Resolution, SPI Interface, Compatible with Arduino/XIAO/STM32
5.83 Inch ePaper Display: Monochrome e-ink screen delivers crisp, clear visuals with a sharp 648×480 pixel resolution.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Next Steps for Community and Hardware Developers
In the coming months, community members and third-party manufacturers are expected to experiment with the open-source design, potentially releasing pre-assembled or kit-based e-ink displays compatible with Steam Machines. Valve may also monitor the project’s progress and could provide further support or updates. Meanwhile, enthusiasts will likely share their builds and improvements online, fostering a growing ecosystem of custom hardware options.
Developers and vendors interested in producing commercial versions will evaluate the design for mass production feasibility, while Valve continues to support the open hardware ethos. The success of this initiative could influence future hardware customization options for gaming consoles and PC devices.
ELECROW ESP32 E-Ink Display 2.13 Inch, CrowPanel E-paper HMI Display Compatible with Arduino IDE, E Ink Screen with 122×250 Resolution Black/White Color, Driven by SPI Interface (Without Acrylic Case)
Built-in ESP32-S3 Controller & SPI Interface – Comes with ESP32-S3 as the main MCU (up to 240 MHz)…
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Key Questions
Can I buy the e-ink display directly from Valve?
No, Valve has stated they will not manufacture or sell the display units. The project is open-source, allowing others to build or produce compatible displays independently.
What components are needed to make the Inkterface?
The required components include an Adafruit ESP32 Feather with 2MB PSRAM, an Adafruit eInk Breakout Friend, and a 5.83-inch monochrome e-ink panel, along with some screws and magnets for assembly.
Will third-party vendors start selling ready-made e-ink displays?
It is unconfirmed, but vendors like JSAUX have teased plans to produce ‘Ink & Pixel’ versions, suggesting commercial options may appear if community interest grows.
Is this hardware compatible with all Steam Machines?
The design is intended to be adaptable, but compatibility depends on the specific hardware and case modifications. Community testing will clarify how universal the solution is.
What benefits does an e-ink display provide for Steam Machine users?
E-ink displays are low-power, always-on screens suitable for notifications, system info, or game stats, offering a customizable and energy-efficient upgrade for Steam Machines.
Source: Hacker News
