Knuckles EV3 is the result of iterating and improving the prototype of their Knuckles EV2 motion controllers. They have worked on improving usability, fit and finish.
The EV3 kit application form is now open. For developers who have not yet requested a kit, they should log in to the Steamworks partner site and look for the “Beta Hardware Request” link.
ORIGINAL NEWS (19/09/2018):
A few months ago, Valve shipped hundreds of Knuckles EV2 development kits to developers. EV2 was a huge leap from the previous generation with a completely new design, new inputs and new sensors. The team has continued to iterate and make improvements, and have now announced that the Knuckles EV3 development kits are now available. Knuckles EV3 enhances the EV2 design with updates to the input feel, strap design, battery life and more.
Updates to EV3:
Strap
- Strap adjustment marks have been added to the top plate
- The strap rivet is thinner and no longer interferes with the wing
- The cord is now shorter
Trigger
- Trigger spring is now stronger
- Improved trigger assembly and reliability
System button
- The System button has been lowered slightly to avoid accidental keystrokes
Grip FSR
- Grip FSR (force sensors) more consistent from unit to unit
Battery life
- Higher efficiency sensors increase battery life by 2 hours
- Players can now expect 7-8 hours of play time per charge
Other improvements
- Improved LED light mix
- The USB port has been lowered, making it easy to connect the charging / data cable
- Improved fit and finish
- Improved reliability
Knuckles EV3 kits are being produced in much larger quantities than EV2, more kits will be sent to more developers. Valve will begin contacting developers (EV2 recipients and developers who requested a kit) to gather information and begin distributing the EV3 dev-kits. For developers who have not yet ordered a kit, the EV3 application form will soon open.
