Samsung doesn’t like to be left out when it comes to emerging technologies, and as a part of its exhibition of new launches at IFA in Berlin, the Korean outfit has taken the wraps off the Gear VR headset. We already got a glimpse of the device a week or so ago, which somewhat spoiled the surprise, but nevertheless, Sammy is gunning for a bit of the market currently being pursued by companies ranging from Facebook to Sony, and below, we’ve got all of the info.
With Facebook’s purchase of Oculus, it was only a matter of time before other major players began jumping on the bandwagon, and when it comes to this practice, Samsung is by far the market leader. Gear VR may have quite a bit to say in this fledgling field of tech, and here, we run through the key specs.
Features and Specs
The Gear VR’s optical lens provides a 96-degree field of view, and while we’re accustomed to our mobile devices packing in a bunch of sensors, Samsung’s new invention only includes the basics.
Off the bat, you get an accelerometer, magnetic and proximity sensors, but the key feature of the Gear VR is its integration with the Galaxy Note 4. It connects via microUSB 1.1 connection, allowing you to utilize the handset’s camera and enjoy an immersive experience.
Essentially, it’s an add-on for the Note 4, and the field of view will make it feel to the user as though they are looking at a 4.4-meter display from two meters away.
Interestingly, Samsung has teamed up with Oculus for this particular venture, and the Gear VR will be available over at the Oculus store bundled with a microSD card packing a number of 360-degree videos and trailers.
Price and Release Date
As far as price goes, there’s nothing on the agenda so far. And this fall, the ‘Innovator Edition’ of the Gear VR will be available, with no news pertaining to the final product’s release thus far.
Samsung does imply that Gear VR is something of a niche product, suggesting that it’s aimed for “innovative consumers, specifically VR enthusiasts, developers, mobile experts and professionals, and early technology adopters.” With that said, Mark Zuckerberg and Facebook are already plotting for a world where everybody utilizes these head-mounted devices, and so while touting mainstream adoption may be a little premature, it’s certainly something that could occur in years to come.
What do you make of Gear VR, and indeed Samsung’s announcements in general? Do share your thoughts and comments with us below!
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