Valve open-sources Steam Machine e-ink display as "Inkterface"
Original: Valve open source the Steam Machine e-ink screen so you can make your own
Why This Matters
Open-sourcing the Inkterface lowers the barrier for third-party Steam Machine accessory development.
Valve has released the Steam Machine's e-ink display project as open source on GitLab under the MIT license, dubbed "Inkterface." The release includes hardware specs, assembly instructions, and a build video, enabling anyone to construct their own unit.
Valve has published the full design files and instructions for the Steam Machine's e-ink front-panel display on GitLab under the MIT license, officially naming the project "Inkterface." While Valve itself will not manufacture or sell the accessory, the open-source release allows third parties and individuals to build their own. Required components include an Adafruit ESP32 Feather with 2MB PSRAM, an Adafruit eInk Breakout Friend, an Adafruit 5.83" Monochrome eInk Panel, 13 M2.5 x 5mm Pan Head Machine Screws, and four stepped magnets. Valve also published an assembly video on the GitLab page. The e-ink screen was first teased when early review units were distributed to outlets including Gamers Nexus. Third-party accessory maker JSAUX, which teased plans for an e-ink panel variant back in November 2025, confirmed it still plans to release both "Ink & Pixel versions." The move follows Valve's pattern of open-sourcing hardware design assets, previously done with Steam Deck and Index CAD files.