Steam Machines to Allow Customization, Including Replacing the Front Panel with an E‑Ink Display Showing CPU and GPU Temperatures

The Gamers Nexus team examined the Steam Machine’s front panel, which is secured with magnets, and discussed the option of 3D-printing bespoke covers. The panel can be personalized with artwork, used to improve airflow, and Valve is reportedly experimenting with a framed variant that incorporates an E-ink display.

Although Valve won’t be selling that exact panel, technically inclined users will be able to produce their own versions — and some may even offer them commercially. The display can show live GPU and CPU temperatures, fan speeds, and other telemetry — a convenient and visually appealing feature.

More customization options are expected for the Steam Machine, including a full-body Companion Cube skin (from Portal) by Dbrand scheduled for release next year. This is intended as a complete exterior wrap for the whole unit, not just the front face.

Those options should appeal to anyone who finds the stock Steam Machine a bit bland.

The biggest remaining question is price. The original Steam Machine initiative didn’t succeed, but the current state of SteamOS and improved Linux compatibility give reason to hope the new effort will avoid past mistakes.

Source: iXBT.games