Valve's Steam Machine has received its first official aesthetic upgrades, giving owners a way to personalize the system's front panel. These magnetic faceplates transform a static console into a functional status display, letting users monitor system health or show off custom art without opening the case. This matters because it adds a layer of visual customization and utility to a machine that otherwise relies on its screen for feedback.
Magnetic accessories add status displays to Valve console
JSAUX revealed two distinct replacement options for the Steam Machine, each designed to snap onto the original chassis. The first option uses an E-Ink screen to display information with minimal power consumption. The second option employs a full-color RGB pixel matrix for more dynamic, live visual updates. Both designs aim to integrate seamlessly with the existing hardware form factor.
The E-Ink faceplate features a 5.83-inch black-and-white display with a resolution of 640×480 pixels. It connects to the Steam Machine via Bluetooth 5.0 and includes a built-in 500mAh battery. JSAUX claims this battery provides up to 16 days of standby life, though refreshing the screen takes between 500 and 800 ms. The Pixel Matrix faceplate uses a 7-inch display with a 64×54 pixel RGB matrix. It connects directly through USB-C for both power and data, allowing for real-time updates.
Both faceplates are designed for SteamOS and support custom layouts through open-source applications. The E-Ink model uses the MonoInk App, while the Pixel Matrix model uses MatrixLink for content management. The E-Ink faceplate is priced at $99.99, and the Pixel Matrix version costs $89.99. Neither model has a confirmed release date yet, with availability listed only as coming soon.
We looked at Steam Machine accessories earlier while tracking community mods for the device. JSAUX offers two replacement faceplates for the Steam Machine, featuring either an E-Ink display or a pixel matrix screen. Buyers can now choose between low-power static displays or vibrant live visuals to match their setup aesthetic.



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