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A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11AltspaceVR is planned to return as a free-to-play Early Access title on Steam in October 2026. SideQuest Ltd. is both developer and publisher. You will not need a virtual-reality headset: the new version is intended to work in desktop mode and on Android, while VR players can use OpenXR, PCVR or Steam Link. Steam’s recommended VR line specifically names Valve’s Steam Frame headset.
The listing says “Coming Soon To Early Access,” but gives no launch day. October is a target month, not a guaranteed release date, and the application is not yet available on Steam.
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What is confirmed about the Steam release?
- Release window: October 2026, with no specific day announced.
- Availability: Free to play on Steam; the Early Access FAQ says the team currently plans to keep it free after full release.
- Developer and publisher: SideQuest Ltd.
- Current status: Planned Early Access release, not yet playable from the Steam store.
The free-to-play label describes access to the game, not necessarily every future cosmetic, event or optional feature. The published FAQ only commits to the game remaining free; it does not describe a final monetization model.
Do you need a VR headset?
No. The Steam listing says AltspaceVR works in desktop mode and on Android without VR. That gives people with a Windows PC or compatible Android device a way to enter the social world without buying a headset.
#1 Best Overall
- CARDBOARD MONKENAUT — Get our best Gorilla Tag bundle yet with this Amazon exclusive deal. Purchase Meta Quest 3 to get exclusive items, including the Gorilla Space Program Suit and Helmet, plus 2,000 SHINY ROCKS.
- NEARLY 30% LEAP IN RESOLUTION — Experience every thrill in breathtaking detail with sharp graphics and stunning 4K+ Infinite Display.
- NO WIRES, MORE FUN — Break free from cords. Game, play and explore in immersive worlds — untethered and without limits.
- 2X GRAPHICAL PROCESSING POWER — Enjoy lightning-fast load times and next-gen graphics for smooth gaming powered by the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor.
- EXPERIENCE VIRTUAL REALITY — Blend virtual objects with your physical space and experience two worlds at once in your VR headset.
VR remains an alternative access mode rather than a prerequisite. The listing names Meta Quest, Pico and Windows PC, including compatible SteamVR and OpenXR headsets. For PC-based VR, the minimum support line includes OpenXR, PCVR and Steam Link.
What does “Steam Frame recommended” mean?
Steam Frame appears on the recommended VR-support line, alongside OpenXR. It is a recommendation for a VR setup, not a requirement for playing AltspaceVR. A headset that meets the listing’s minimum OpenXR, PCVR or Steam Link compatibility should be the starting point for users who already own VR hardware.
Rank #2
- CARDBOARD MONKENAUT — Get our best Gorilla Tag bundle yet with this Amazon exclusive deal. Purchase Meta Quest 3S to get exclusive items, including the Gorilla Space Program Suit and Helmet, plus 2,000 SHINY ROCKS.
- NO WIRES, MORE FUN — Break free from cords. Game, play and explore immersive worlds — untethered and without limits.
- 2X GRAPHICAL PROCESSING POWER — Enjoy lightning-fast load times and next-gen graphics for smooth gaming powered by the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor.
- EXPERIENCE VIRTUAL REALITY — Take gaming to a new level and blend virtual objects with your physical space to experience two worlds at once in your VR headset.
- 2+ HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE — Charge less, play longer and stay in the action with an improved battery that keeps up. *Based on the graphic performance of the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 platform vs the Meta Quest 2 platform.
Valve describes Steam Frame as a SteamOS headset with 16GB of RAM, SteamVR-compatible controls and support for standalone play. AltspaceVR’s listing names that device specifically, but it does not publish frame-rate targets, resolution requirements, graphics presets or a comparative performance test. “Recommended” therefore identifies the developer’s preferred hardware path, not a guarantee that every other headset will perform identically.
What is playable in Early Access?
SideQuest says the social core is already playable: multiplayer Worlds, avatars, spatial voice chat and events. The team also says community use is necessary to make important decisions about a social world, which is why those systems are being developed with an active player base.
Rank #3
- Displays - Dual 1440 x 1600 LCDs, full RGB per pixel, ultra-low persistence global backlight illumination (0.330ms at 144Hz)
- Ergonomic Adjustments - Head size, eye relief (FOV), IPD, speaker positions. Rear cradle adapter included.
- Inter-pupillary Distance (IPD) - 58mm - 70mm range physical adjustment
- Optics - Double element, canted lens design
- NOTE - PC compatible with Valve Index is required
Features planned for expansion
- Friends and broader social connections
- Direct messaging
- Groups and community organization
- Event and World discovery
- More avatar customization
- Progression and rewards
- Moderation and safety tools
- Creator features
These items describe the roadmap, not a promise that every feature will arrive at launch or in a particular order. Early Access systems, content and priorities can change as players use the service.
How the main access options compare
| Option | Hardware path | What you gain | Trade-offs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Desktop | Windows PC, no headset | Lowest hardware barrier; keyboard-and-screen access | Less immersion and no tracked VR interaction |
| Android | Compatible Android device | Portable access without VR equipment | Experience depends on the device and mobile controls |
| Minimum VR | OpenXR, PCVR or Steam Link-compatible setup | Head tracking, tracked controllers and spatial presence | Requires compatible VR hardware and setup |
| Recommended VR | OpenXR with Steam Frame named by the listing | Hardware path SideQuest specifically recommends | Steam Frame is not required, and no performance guarantee for other devices is stated |
How long will Early Access last?
The Steam page estimates “around 6–12 months.” SideQuest also says it does not want to impose an artificial deadline. Treat that range as a planning target rather than a scheduled end date; the full release could arrive earlier or later, depending on development and community feedback.
Rank #4
- All-In-One VR Solution: The VIVE Focus series offers standalone and PC VR experiences. Harness the power of virtual reality with high-resolution displays, versatile tracking features, and immersive applications. Base station-free.
- PC VR Gaming Headset: Immerse yourself in low-latency VIVEPORT and SteamVR gameplay. DisplayPort mode delivers lossless, high-fidelity visuals straight from your PC.(1) Connect your PC directly to your Wi-Fi router using an Ethernet cable for PC VR streaming.
- Make Interactions Real: Connect in VRChat like never before. With built-in eye tracking and low-light hand tracking; plus face and body tracker support, movement in VR is intuitive and lifelike.(2)(3)
- Immersive 5k Headset Display: The immersive display puts you right at the heart of the action with a 5K resolution of 2448 x 2448 pixels per eye, up to 120° field of view, and 90 Hz refresh rate.
- Personalize Your Fit: Auto-IPD adjustment aligns the XR headset's lenses with the centers of your pupils, giving your eyes the clearest, most comfortable viewing experience.(4)
What returning AltspaceVR users should know
This is a new planned Steam release from SideQuest, not a stated restoration of the old service. The listing does not promise migration of accounts, Worlds or user-created content from Microsoft’s former AltspaceVR platform. Anyone expecting old identity, contacts or creations to reappear should wait for explicit migration details instead of assuming continuity.
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Best Value
- VISUALS: 2880 x 2880 per eye resolution and 16.6 million pixels, enjoy the pinnacle of clarity
- SCREEN TECHNOLOGY: QLED display, supporting local dimming and HDR, achieving high contrast and vivid colors
- LENS: Glass aspheric lens, providing edge-to-edge clarity and reducing distortion
- ULTRA-LOW LATENCY: Up to 120Hz, Experience minimal lag with high refresh rates, providing a fluid and responsive VR environment for immersive simulations
- COMPATIBILITY: Seamlessly integrate with your existing SteamVR setup, including compatibility with controllers like the Valve Index Knuckles or HTC VIVE
What to check before launch
- Decide whether desktop, Android or VR best fits your hardware and comfort.
- For VR, verify that your headset and connection method support OpenXR, PCVR or Steam Link.
- If you are considering Steam Frame, confirm its availability, regional pricing and current specifications when purchasing.
- Follow the Steam listing for the exact release day; only October 2026 has been announced.
- Expect Early Access changes and review the final account, content and privacy policies before investing time in Worlds or creator tools.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
