Valve open source the Steam Machine e-ink screen so you can make your own
Valve Open-Sources Steam Machine E-Ink Display for DIY Enthusiasts
While Valve has decided to sell not to manufacture or distribute an official e-ink display for the Steam Machine, they have taken a community-first approach by open-sourcing the design so users can build their own.
This feature was initially hinted at during the first wave of hardware reviews. Now, the complete documentation and files are hosted on their GitLab repository under the MIT license, providing everything necessary to integrate a custom screen onto the front of the device.
Introducing the "Inkterface"
Valve has officially dubbed this project the "Inkterface." To get this project up and running, you will need specific hardware.
🛠️ Required Components
- 1 x Adafruit ESP32 Feather
- 2MB PSRAM (integrated with the Feather)
To assist builders, Valve uploaded a step-by-step assembly video to GitLab. For convenience, GamingOnLinux has re-hosted the content:
Note: YouTube embeds require cookie acceptance to function.
The Ecosystem and Third-Party Support
There is a strong possibility that professional accessory manufacturers will step in to provide pre-assembled versions of the Inkterface.
- JSAUX: Back in November 2025, JSAUX teased their involvement, and they have recently reaffirmed their intention to release "Ink & Pixel versions" of the hardware.
- Market Potential: If the Steam Machine maintains its popularity, other third-party brands are expected to follow suit with various iterations.
Open Source Workflow
Community Discourse & Feedback
The announcement sparked a variety of reactions from the Linux gaming community.
| User | Perspective | Key Point |
|---|---|---|
| TheSHEEEP | Hardware Utility | Sees it as a great server or streaming PC rather than a primary gaming rig; appreciates the open-source CAD files. |
| Ardje | Technical Modding | Suggests using "modos eink" for lower latency; notes that STL files allow for total front-plate customization. |
| Verglas | Skeptical/Curious | Questioned the practical use case, jokingly suggesting reading e-books during long Skyrim load times. |
| Arehandoro | Thermal Concerns | Worried about how replacing the plate with a screen affects heat dissipation: |
| spacemonkey | The Meme | Predicts that someone will inevitably make the screen run Doom. |
| Taros | Aesthetic | Imagines a "Companion Cube" themed front plate. |
| walther von stolzing | Functional | Compares it to having a physical "dockapp" on a desk. |
About the Author: Liam Squires-Hand
Liam is the founder and owner of GamingOnLinux. His journey with Linux began in 2003 with Mandrake, and his passion for the ecosystem grew significantly with the rise of Ubuntu.
🔗 Quick Links & Resources
- Source Code:
gitlab.steamos.cloud - Vendor Updates:
x.com/jsauxofficial - Hardware Analysis:
gamersnexus.net
Related News:
- GE-Proton 11-1 release (featuring
d7vkandoptiscaler). - Steam Machine pricing announcement (noted as being quite expensive).
- PS5 Linux project updates for Slim models and new firmware.
- KDE's 30th Anniversary celebration.
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