Since last month, Samsung is gossiped to be working on a VR device that is being designed in collaboration with Oculus VR. Now, SamMobile has confirmed that a virtual reality device called Gear VR is in the pipeline and that it will be introduced at the IFA 2014 in September along with the Galaxy Note 4.
According to the report, Samsung is not making a standalone virtual reality headset. Instead, it has a modular design that will let the users to dock a Galaxy device to the Gear VR via USB 3.0. It also claims that the virtual reality effect will be achieved by head tracking and not by incorporating sensors on the headset. However, to track the head motion the Gear VR will utilize the sensors on the Galaxy device such as gyroscope, accelerometer and processing power.
In addition, the report adds that the AMOLED panels of the Samsung flagship models will render a flawless and exceptional virtual reality experience. The Gear VR is claimed to be similar to the Cardboard VR headset of Google that was showcased at the Google I/O 2014. Ultimately, Samsung’s Gear VR is said to be more comfortable to wear than the Google offering with an elastic head band and soft padded cushion sides.
Coming to the leaked image of the alleged Gear VR, the headset appears to have a see-through button that will use the rear snapper of the smartphone to supply the user with a video of the outside world. This will eliminate the necessity to remove and wear the device all the time and makes it a better offering than the Sony and Oculus competitors. A touchpad under this button will facilitate navigation through the user interface of the Galaxy smartphone.
Moreover, the report adds that while the hardware of Gear VR is developed solely by Samsung, the software is developed in collaboration with the makers of Oculus Rift VR gaming headset. There will be a dedicated section for Samsung Apps exclusive to the Gear VR similar to the apps for smartwatches. Under this section, there will apps such as Gallery, 360 Player, Theatre and more.
Expect to hear more about Samsung's virtual reality headset, the Gear VR in the coming weeks.