Valve has now added a feature that lets you put desktop windows and applications in your view during VR gaming so that they're always in sight. The feature appears in the latest version of SteamVR 1.19.6. Initially, Steam only allowed you to use Big Picture mode for VR headsets which presented many problems, namely that the feature is for use with large TVs, not VR, making virtual reality seem like an afterthought. Eventually, Steam released SteamVR which was a welcome sign for VR enthusiasts everywhere, adding new levels of immersion and use for VR headsets.
Steam has been greatly expanding its VR functionality lately, adding the ability to view different application windows through your VR dashboard. There's also now the ability to dock different applications to your controllers meaning software such as Spotify or different chat applications remains visible while using virtual reality. This, combined with the over 200 VR experiences available on Steam, means that the platform is many VR enthusiast's go-to for gaming and other applications.
In this new version, you can now choose to either dock an application window to your controller, as added in the last update, or you can now tear it off using the move button to let the software float in your view at all times. The update also further updates SteamVR's virtual user interface improving the field of view allowing users to see more of their applications, reducing the amount one needs to scroll.
A Whole New Level Of Immersion
The update is currently in beta and will eventually see a wider release. However, if you want to opt-in for SteamVR beta testing and use 1.19.6 you can go to your Steam and right-click VR games. After that, select properties, then select the beta tab. In the drop-down list, you can select Steam VR beta update, and from there just wait for Steam to update so you can enjoy these cool new features.
This latest update also brings with it a plethora of upgrades that can make any VR game much more accessible without the need to hamper immersion. You can keep Discord open on your wrist while similarly browsing Spotify as it floats before you without needing to close down applications. It also opens a world of opportunities for people wanting to Twitch stream, interact with their audience, and continue with any game they are playing. Oculus headsets have boasted similar features before Steam adopted them to high praise so it is good that other VR developers are following suit.