Aside from the two new phablets that were introduced at Samsung's IFA event, one of the big attractions was the accessory Samsung Gear VR. These are virtual reality glasses that, combined with the Galaxy Note 4, allow you to enjoy a immersive experience entertainment. Its official announced price was $199.
For the cost indicated, it is clear that the smartphone is not includedThis is normal, since the Note 4 was a high-end device at the time; in addition, details of the Innovator Edition. In any case, the price of the accessory was competitive considering that we are talking about a product ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN with advanced technology.
As we mentioned, the price of the Samsung Gear VR was set at $199. The information was shared at an event in New York by a official spokesperson of the company, which makes this data completely reliable.
An informative infographic about glasses Samsung Gear VR
As for availability, the glasses Samsung Gear VR They are marketed as Galaxy mobile accessory and have been present in different regions through official and retail channels.
Price and Availability
The launch price was announced in $199 (Innovator Edition). Over time they arrived consumer editions with more adjusted amounts and promotions which included packs with Galaxy smartphones, placing the entry cost around 99 € in specific campaigns. In the retail channel, such as when it was announced that I would arrive in Spain, it is common for the euro/dollar exchange rate does not match the official one, and in import units may appear incompatibilities by region or with certain models.
In addition to the initial version, Samsung incorporated a variant with dedicated controller powered by Oculus to improve interaction and expand the VR ecosystem; there are analyses on what would the new glasses be called?, maintaining a competitive price according to market and availability.
Characteristics and specifications
Samsung Gear VR stands out for a technical set oriented towards the comfort and minimize latency:
- Sensors: accelerometer, gyroscope, geomagnetic and proximity.
- Field of View: approx. 96° (initial editions) and lenses of 42 mm with FOV close to 101° in variants with controller.
- Latency (head tracking): less than 20 ms to reduce dizziness.
- Optical adjustment: control of interpupillary distance (approx. 55–71 mm) and top wheel to zoom in/out the mobile.
- Physical checks: : Side touchpad, back button and volume keys within easy reach.
- Connection: versions with microUSB and later with USB‑C, according to edition.
- Ergonomics: adjustable strap, interior padding and contained weight for longer sessions.
- Dimensions and weight: around 90 × 198 × 116 mm y 379 gr without smartphone (may vary by version).
Compatibility and control
Gear VR requires a compatible Samsung Galaxy smartphone, as it utilizes its display and graphics power. Compatibility varies by edition: the first ones were geared toward the Galaxy Note 4 and later generations. Galaxy S6/S7 y Notes 5; later variants extended support to Galaxy S8/S9 and Note models with USB‑C. In addition to the Touchpad, it is possible to use Bluetooth controllers for games and interactive experiences.
In the controller editions, the controller includes clickable touchpad, trigger, keys Home/Back/Volume and wrist strap. Works with 2 AAA batteries and, with an approximate use of 2 hour, can reach about 40 days autonomy.
Recommended uses and contents
The app ecosystem includes experiences 360°, stereoscopic videos, games with and without control, platforms of movies and series optimized for VR, and applications of virtual trips by landscapes or space. There are also proposals for immersive concerts, broadcasts of sports in 360°, virtual meetings, social spaces and, for adult audiences, specific content available in compatible stores. It is advisable to manage usage times to avoid visual fatigue.
Design, display and interface
The phone mount is solid and the strap system makes it easy to carry. stable fit. Image quality depends on the mobile panel; with high-resolution screens, the sharpness is noticeable and the grid effect is attenuated. The interface guides the user with a initial assistant and clear menus; the load times are contained and control with the eye plus the Touchpad is intuitive. In the variants with a controller, the head movement when sailing, which improves comfort.
Environmental transparency (useful information)
If you're concerned about the climate impact of tech accessories, look for labels Climate PartnersThis certification indicates that a product follows five steps of climate action: carbon footprint calculation, reduction targets, application of measures, project financing climate and transparent communication. The seals usually include a certification number (for example, ITKX56) to verify the details of the commitment. Keep in mind that each reference corresponds to a specific product.
Samsung has opted for an accessible proposal that brought virtual reality to the general public with a Adjusted Price, good ergonomics and a catalog that, although it has evolved, offers varied experiences. For those who already have a compatible Galaxy, Gear VR remains a single entry to the VR world. Source: Samsung Tomorrow.
