This is a PR piece, pure and simple. There is a dose of speculation in the quotes from Gabe Newell. Depending upon what your knowledge of Valve is, and his work there, that speculation will be worth only the value you are willing to give it accordingly. In my opinion, Gabe is renowned for being enigmatic, aloof, and playing with misdirection specifically; thus, I think this is merely a ploy to drive effort in VR development, and a surge in demand from consumers. You may think differently, and you are entitled to your opinions accordingly.