Steam Frame Eye Tracking: Single Eye Setup

This guide walks you through enabling Steam Frame’s eye tracking for a single eye, which is useful for accessibility, testing, or when one eye is closed during play. You’ll adjust the tracking mode in the SteamVR settings and calibrate the headset for best results. No additional hardware is needed beyond a compatible headset with built-in eye tracking.

What You’ll Need

• A SteamVR-compatible headset with built-in eye tracking (e.g., Vive Pro Eye, Valve Index with eye tracking add-on, or similar).
• SteamVR installed and up to date.
• Steam Frame installed from the Steam store.
• Headset properly set up and recognized by SteamVR.

Step-by-Step

1. Launch SteamVR: Start SteamVR from your desktop or Steam library. Ensure your headset is powered on and tracked correctly.
2. Open Steam Frame: While in SteamVR, launch Steam Frame from your Steam library or the SteamVR dashboard.
3. Access Settings: In Steam Frame, look for the settings menu. This is usually a gear icon or a “Settings” button in the main menu or overlay.
4. Find Eye Tracking Options: Navigate to the “Eye Tracking” or “Tracking” section within settings. The exact label may vary slightly depending on the version.
5. Select Single Eye Mode: Look for a dropdown or toggle labeled “Tracking Mode” or “Eye Selection.” Choose “Single Eye” or “Left Eye Only” / “Right Eye Only” depending on your needs.
6. Choose Which Eye: If prompted, select whether you want to track the left or right eye. This is typically a radio button or a dropdown.
7. Apply and Save: Click “Apply” or “Save” to confirm your selection. Steam Frame may ask you to restart the app for changes to take effect.
8. Calibrate (if needed): If the eye tracking is not accurate, you may need to recalibrate. Look for a “Calibrate” button in the same settings area. Follow the on-screen instructions, which usually involve looking at a series of dots.
9. Test the Tracking: Exit settings and test the tracking by looking around. The cursor or highlighted elements should respond to your chosen eye’s movement.

Common Mistakes

• Not applying settings: Forgetting to click “Apply” or “Save” before exiting the settings menu.
• Choosing the wrong eye: Selecting the opposite eye of the one you intend to use, which can cause confusion during use.
• Skipping calibration: Not recalibrating after switching to single-eye mode, leading to poor tracking accuracy.
• Outdated software: Running an older version of SteamVR or Steam Frame that may not support single-eye tracking properly.

Tips

• Keep your headset lenses clean and free of smudges for optimal eye tracking.
• Ensure the headset is positioned correctly on your face—not too loose or too tight—so the eye tracking sensors can see your eyes clearly.
• If you have long eyelashes or wear glasses, make sure they don’t obstruct the sensors. Some users find contact lenses work better.
• Recalibrate whenever you change the headset’s position or if tracking feels off.
• Check for firmware updates for your headset and eye tracking module, as these can improve performance.

Troubleshooting

If the single-eye tracking isn’t working as expected, try the following steps in order:

1. Restart Steam Frame: Close the app completely and relaunch it. This can resolve temporary glitches.
2. Restart SteamVR: Exit SteamVR and restart it. This refreshes the connection to the headset and eye tracking hardware.
3. Re-calibrate: Run the calibration again, making sure you follow the prompts carefully and keep your head still.
4. Check the eye tracking hardware: Ensure the eye tracking module is properly connected (if it’s an add-on) and that no cables are loose.
5. Update drivers and software: Update your graphics drivers, SteamVR, and Steam Frame to the latest versions. Check the SteamVR settings for any component updates.
6. Verify headset fit: Adjust the headset so it sits comfortably and the eye tracking sensors have a clear view of your eyes.
7. Reset to defaults: In Steam Frame settings, reset all tracking options to default, then re-enable single-eye mode.
8. Contact support: If none of the above works, reach out to the headset manufacturer or Steam Frame support for further assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use single-eye tracking with any headset?

No, your headset must have built-in eye tracking hardware. If it doesn’t, the option won’t appear in Steam Frame.

Will single-eye tracking work if I have an eye patch or one eye closed?

Yes, that’s one of the main use cases. Just select the eye that is open and visible to the sensors.

Does single-eye tracking affect performance?

It generally has a negligible performance impact, as the eye tracking system is already running. The main difference is which eye’s data is used.

How do I know which eye is being tracked?

Steam Frame may display a small indicator in the settings or overlay. You can also test by covering one eye and seeing if the cursor still moves.

Can I switch between single-eye and both-eye tracking easily?

Yes, you can change the tracking mode in the settings at any time, though you may need to recalibrate after switching.

Why is my eye tracking inaccurate after switching to single-eye?

This is usually due to needing recalibration. Run the calibration process again while using the selected eye.

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