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Samsung’s Own VR Device is Now Available

Samsung’s Own VR Device is Now Available

Back in September, Oculus VR–the developer behind the Oculus Rift virtual reality device–and electronics company Samsung announced a partnership to collaborate on a mobile-centred virtual reality headset that would be powered by technology behind the Oculus Rift. This device, coined as the “Samsung Gear VR”, was described as being optimized for the Galaxy Note 4 smartphone. It was pitched as a completely untethered, easy-to-use experience, with the procedure being to just plug in your Galaxy Note 4 and play.

The Samsung Gear VR goes far beyond expectations of how mobile technology can be used to consume content, and is a powerful representation of the progressive innovation of the Gear series, ” added Samsung’s president and CEO of its IT and Mobile Communications Division, JK Shin, back in September . “ We are pleased to have partnered with Oculus VR to bring this incredibly immersive mobile content experience to consumers.

Back then, the plan was to initially release an “Innovator Edition”, which is exactly what is on sale right now over on Samsung’s own online store. However, this build of the Samsung Gear VR is still in Beta, and it’s intended to be sold to developers and enthusiasts.

A downside to the headset is that it’s only compatible with the Galaxy Note 4, and it won’t work on any other smartphone or device. The Verizon version of the Galaxy Note 4 currently isn’t compatible with the Samsung Gear VR, but it’s promised that it will be soon.

The device itself allows for a full 360 degree environment, which completely surrounds you with whatever form of entertainment you happen to be watching (as long as it supports virtual reality). Below is Samsung’s at-a-glance summarization of what the Gear VR is and what it offers:

  • Compatibility: Galaxy Note 4

  • Package Contents: Gear VR Innovator’s Edition headset, carrying case, replacement face cushioning, lens cloth, 16GB microSD card loaded with starter content, SD card adapter, user manual, warranty statement

  • Controls: Touch pad, dedicated back button, focus adjustment wheel, volume keys, phone lock button

  • Download new applications from the Oculus store. Oculus store downloaded at device setup while following on-screen prompts.

You can currently buy the virtual device for $199.99. So far, the Samsung Gear VR seems to only be purchasable via Samsung’s US store at this time. Please keep in mind that this Innovator Edition is still in Beta, and it’s advisable that you be cautious if you’re planning on getting one for yourself.

[ Source(s): Samsung ]

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