Valve acknowledges Steam Deck shortages due to memory and component issues, casting doubt on the future of the Steam Machine.
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In a surprising turn, Valve has admitted that the Steam Deck OLED is currently out of stock due to a RAM shortage. This revelation comes just days after I noticed that every version of this top-tier gaming handheld was unavailable on their site, and I’m starting to doubt the Steam Machine will actually launch this year.
In a newly added note on its handheld listings, Valve states that the “Steam Deck OLED may be intermittently out of stock in some regions due to memory and storage shortages. The Steam Deck LCD 256GB is no longer in production and will not be available once sold out.” Ouch.
The upcoming Steam Machine mini PC hasn’t received a similar update yet, but Valve has previously indicated that its release is also affected by the RAM shortage. They maintain that the console will launch in early 2026, but I’m beginning to think we might see a slowdown in hardware releases.
To clarify the situation with the Steam Deck, the OLED model could remain out of stock for much of the year, while the more affordable 256GB LCD version is now discontinued. That’s the current landscape on the Valve front, making it hard to believe the Steam Machine will launch amidst this turmoil.
The Steam Deck isn’t the only handheld feeling the pinch from the AI industry’s demand for components. Recently, it was reported that Nintendo is contemplating price increases for the Switch 2, and even the PS6 might face delays. It’s a worrying sign when a console that hasn’t even been released is at risk, almost as if AI developers have traveled to the future to shake down Sony for its RAM chips.
If 2026 was your target year to upgrade to a Switch 2 or Steam Deck, or to enhance your gaming PC, I feel for you. I think I speak for the entire team when I say we’re here to support you, and I’ll be on the lookout for ways to keep you gaming without breaking the bank.
I’ll be monitoring any potential price increases from Valve, Sony, Microsoft, Nintendo, or any other major players in the industry. If all else fails, I can always help you revive your Sega Genesis in the big 26. Who needs AI upscaling when you’ve got blast processing at home, right?
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Already have Valve’s powerhouse? Check out the best Steam Deck accessories and docks to elevate your current setup. If you prefer reliving the classics, explore the best retro consoles and handhelds for emulation and more.
