Samsung and Oculus introduce consumer version of Gear VR

September 25, 2015 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced its first Gear VR device aimed at consumers. The latest edition of the Gear VR is compatible with more smartphones, including the Galaxy Note 5, Galaxy S6 edge+, S6 and S6 edge.

“Samsung has been at the forefront of delivering mobile experiences and ‘Gear VR Innovator Edition’ launched last year was no exception,” said JK Shin, CEO and President of IT & Mobile Division, Samsung Electronics. “We see virtual reality as the next computing platform, and we are thrilled to partner with Oculus on Gear VR to set the standard for mobile VR and bring this revolutionary product to consumers.”

The Samsung Gear VR is 22 percent lighter than previous Gear VR Innovator Edition, and includes new foam cushioning to make the device more comfortable to wear. In addition, the Gear VR’s touchpad has been improved, providing greater control whilst users enjoy the film, gaming, 360 degree video and experiential content available for Gear VR.

Brendan Iribe, CEO, Oculus, said: “Together with Samsung, we’ve redefined virtual reality and created the best mobile VR experience available today”. He added, “On Gear VR, people are playing immersive VR games with friends, sharing 360 video experiences, and teleporting around the world with photos and videos – and it’s only the beginning for what’s possible with mobile VR.”

Samsung Gear VR Product Specifications:

  • Dimension / Weight: 201.9 x 116.4 x 92.6 mm / 310g;
  • Sensor: Accelerator, Gyrometer, Proximity(Mount/Unmount Detection)
  • FOV (Field of View): 96 degrees
  • IPD Coverage: 54 ~ 70 mm (Fixed Lenses)
  • Color: Frost White
  • Compatibility: microUSB connection to the Galaxy Note 5, S6 edge+, S6, S6 edge

The Samsung Gear VR will be available in Frost White for USD $99 starting this autumn.

Visit the Auganix HUD for more information on Samsung.

Image credit: Samsung

About the author

Sam Sprigg

Sam is the Founder and Managing Editor of Auganix. With a background in research and report writing, he has been covering XR industry news for the past seven years.