One of the unique devices to come out last year, was from Samsung. In fact, they had a couple of unique looking devices launch last year. There is of course, the Samsung Galaxy Note Edge, which caught everyone by surprise when it was released. But the one in question, is the Samsung Gear VR. This was Samsung’s take on Virtual Reality and is quite an appealing device. That said, it does have its issues. It was consistently reported prior to its release, that the device was having numerous issues with overheating and general functioning. Not forgetting the device compatibility is also very limited, with only the Samsung Galaxy Note devices being compatible. That said, we did hear recently that the Samsung Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S Edge are both expected to be compatible going forward.
There has always been another issue with the Gear VR though and this one is much more of a basic issue. One of availability. While you can buy the device, you have to buy it online. Now, with something like VR, surely you want the device in your hands. After all, it is the ‘experience’ which apparently sells the device, so surely you need to experience it first before you buy. Up until now though, that has not really been an option with only the option to either buy through Samsung directly or the Best Buy website.
Well, the latest news is from February 8th you will be able to buy a Gear VR in-store at your local Best Buy. To clarify, the device will only be available in 100 Best Buy stores nationwide, but will be in stock for you to get up close and personal with. In fact, as well as being able to buy one, you will also be able to demo the unit in-store. Each of the 100 selected Best Buys will be given two demo units to use (one charging and one live). Each unit will come with its own Note 4, which in-turn will come preinstalled with Milk VR, TheBlu (for gaming), Transformers (for obvious reasons) and 360 Photos. If the pilot scheme of 100 stores proves successful, then it is reported the program will roll out to more Best Buy stores. If you are thinking about giving it a try, then you should know that you will not be able to demo the system if you are under 13. Not to mention that demo staff will be able to veto content you try to access (if they deem it unsuitable) and demo’s will be restricted to only three minutes each. So what do you think? Will you be heading down to Best Buy if the Gear VR lands near you? Let us know.