Scientists at Airbus in the UK have repurposed Valve's Steam Deck handheld PC to test prototypes for the ExoMars Rover. The adaptable nature of the Linux-based device has allowed it to transcend its original gaming purpose, finding utility in complex scientific applications.
In a video demonstration shared by YouTuber Tom Scott, an Airbus senior engineer showcased the progress of a new rover prototype being tested in a simulated Martian environment. Due to the significant communication delay between Earth and Mars, the rover is designed for autonomous operation using onboard 3D cameras. However, for testing and development phases, local control is necessary. Initially, the prototype was directed via a laptop. Later, the engineer introduced a Steam Deck running custom software, enabling Scott to control a different rover prototype in real time through the handheld's integrated controller.
While the specific software running on the Steam Deck was not detailed, this is not the first instance of the device being used for robotics control. Previously, operators at Disney's Galaxy's Edge were observed using Steam Decks to control droids. This suggests that the open nature of Valve's hardware makes it suitable for a variety of unforeseen applications.
This trend of non-gaming utility is consistent with Valve's earlier hardware efforts. Both the Steam Machine and Steam Frame, like the Steam Deck, operate on Linux and permit users to install alternative programs or operating systems. This openness, as explained by Valve engineers Pierre-Loup Griffais and Yazan Aldehayyat in a past interview, stems from the principle that robust hardware is fundamentally capable across multiple domains. "Good hardware is good hardware," Aldehayyat stated, highlighting the shared challenges in developing versatile computing devices.
The open architecture of these devices, while fostering innovation, also presents a potential side effect: increased cost for non-gaming applications. Because Valve does not restrict its hardware, entities like scientific institutions can acquire Steam Decks for robotics control without necessarily engaging with the Steam storefront for games. The potential applications for the upcoming Steam Frame VR headset, with its advanced motion-tracking capabilities, are also anticipated to be extensive, further demonstrating the versatility of Valve's hardware beyond its initial gaming focus.