Input Devices
Ongoing coverage on Input Devices.
Latest coverage
Valve explains clever shortcut for the Steam Controller's Grip Sense, and I'm starting to think it's a…
Valve has detailed the functionality of the Steam Controller's Grip Sense feature, which uses capacitive sensors in the handles to detect touch. The company suggests using Grip Sense for shortcuts like activating weapon wheels or menus, and also explains a technique called 'ratcheting' which uses Grip Sense to toggle gyro controls on and off for easier re-centering.
Gigabyte's new gaming mouse and keyboard look great and all, but can we get a round of applause for its web…
Gigabyte has unveiled new gaming peripherals, the Aorus K10 Infinity keyboard and Aorus M10 Infinity mouse, featuring advanced specifications like magnetic switches and 8000 Hz polling rates. A key highlight is the introduction of web-based software for easier control and customization, aiming to reduce bloatware.
Introducing the Finalmouse Starlight X
Finalmouse has unveiled the Starlight X (SLX), a new flagship wireless gaming mouse developed over four years. It features a new shape designed for tactical FPS games, an adjustable Dual-State analog click system with rapid trigger support, and weighs only 38 grams due to its aerospace-developed carbon fiber construction. The mouse also includes advanced wireless technologies and a new custom sensor.
HID Remapper added support for the new Steam Controller
The open-source programmable adapter HID Remapper has added support for Valve's Steam Controller. This hardware adapter allows for button mapping, sensitivity changes, and input type modification, with configurations saved directly on the device. Recent updates on May 20th and May 25th have improved compatibility with the controller and its firmware.
Steam Beta brings even more Steam Controller tweaks and a firmware fix for Linux
Valve has released a new Steam Beta client with several updates for the Steam Controller, including firmware fixes and new input options. The update addresses issues with firmware updates on Linux, rumble haptics, and trackpad dead zones. A Steam Deck Beta client update also includes some of these changes.
The Steam Controller no longer needs Steam to get the most from it
The Steam Controller now offers its full range of features in games not running on Steam, thanks to the integration of its new capabilities into the Simple DirectMedia Layer (SDL) software library. This update allows applications using SDL to access the controller's touchpads, capacitive stick touch, and grip sense handling without requiring Steam to be running in the background. While developers will need to implement support, this enhancement expands the controller's usability beyond Steam-launched titles, particularly for emulators and open-source games.
Steam Beta fixes continuous rumble breaking the new Steam Controller Gyro
The latest Steam Beta client includes fixes for the Steam Controller, specifically addressing an issue where continuous rumble could break gyro input. A firmware update for the controller is available through the beta client, which also brings general improvements and fixes for Remote Play and the In-Game Overlay.
SDL adds expanded support for the new Steam Controller without Steam
The Simple DirectMedia Layer (SDL) library will soon receive expanded support for Valve's new Steam Controller, allowing it to function without the Steam client running. This update enhances support for various controller features, including touchpads and grip sensors, benefiting games that utilize SDL for input.
PRECISION WITHOUT COMPROMISE – RAZER INTRODUCES THE HUNTSMAN V3 TENKEYLESS 8KHZ
Razer has announced the Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz, an analog optical esports keyboard featuring ultra-low latency and precise input control. The keyboard utilizes Razer Analog Optical Switches Gen-2 and true 8000 Hz HyperPolling for rapid response times. It offers on-the-fly adjustments for actuation point and Rapid Trigger sensitivity, with settings saved onboard or customizable via Razer Synapse.
"A next-gen Steam Deck would do the same": Valve are already eyeing Steam Controller hardware upgrades to reuse in future handhelds
Valve is considering incorporating hardware improvements from the Steam Controller into future Steam Deck models, according to engineers Steve Cardinali and Lawrence Yang. Features like the TMR thumbsticks and Grip Sense sensors are potential candidates for reuse. This approach aligns with Valve's strategy of building upon previous hardware learnings for new devices.
Steam Controller Reviews
Reviews for Valve's new Steam Controller have been released following its announcement. Publications like Ars Technica have published their findings on the innovative input device, which aims to provide a gamepad-like experience on PC.
Steam Controller to Launch Ahead of the Steam Machine on May 4 at $149 CAD and $99 USD | Console Creatures
Valve has announced that the Steam Controller will launch on May 4th for $99 USD and $149 CAD. This second-generation controller, powered by Steam Input, is designed to play all Steam games on various devices including PC, laptops, and Steam OS hardware like the Steam Deck. Valve also mentioned that updates on the Steam Frame and Steam Machine will be shared soon.
Steam Controller launches in May with a huge host of specs and features
Valve has announced the release date for its new Steam Controller, launching worldwide on May 4 for $99. The controller features two trackpads, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, magnetic thumbsticks, and gyro motion control. It is compatible with any device that can run Steam, including PC, Mac, Steam Deck, and Steam Machine.
Steam Controller review: even without a Steam Machine mate, this is a smartly crafted gamepad that puts PCs first
The second-generation Steam Controller is a versatile and functional gamepad designed primarily for PC use, offering improvements over its predecessor with the addition of a D-pad and a second thumbstick. It features advanced inputs like dual trackpads with improved haptics and Hall Effect-style stick drift protection, making it highly customizable. While it may lack the premium feel of some high-end controllers and has compatibility limitations with non-Steam launchers, its unique PC-centric features and innovative magnetic charging make it a compelling option for PC gamers.
Valve Secretly Uploads Unwatchable Steam Controller Video
Valve has mysteriously uploaded an unwatchable unboxing video for the discontinued Steam Controller, sparking speculation about potential new hardware. Theories range from updates for the Steam Deck to a possible Steam Controller 2 or even VR input devices, given Valve's history with experimental hardware and cryptic announcements.
AC Shadows Update Brings Mouse Support to Nintendo Switch 2
Ubisoft is releasing Title Update 1.1.10 for Assassin's Creed Shadows, which will introduce full mouse and keyboard support to the Nintendo Switch 2. This update also includes PSSR 2 support, aiming to enhance visual fidelity on the platform. The patch is scheduled to go live tomorrow at 2pm UTC.
