Earlier today, Samsung announced the launch of a new version of the Gear VR. Compared to the previous version, this new one is purposely designed to be a consumer product and as a result was announced to be coming in at a much more affordable price point. In fact, the price being quoted by Samsung is $99 which will make this a real contender in the virtual reality market going forward.
Well, following that initial announcement, the company has now released some more details about the consumer version of the Gear VR including a few of the more traditional specs. In terms of the size, the Consumer Gear VR measures 201.9 mm x 116.4 mm x 92.6 mm and weighs in at 310 grams. Which is said by Samsung to be 22-percent lighter than the previous Innovator Edition of the Gear VR. Sensors on board will include an Accelerometer, a Gyrometer, a Proximity (Mount/Unmount Detection) sensor and the field of view (FOV) on offer will be 96 degrees. The unit will be available in Frost white color only and as already confirmed will be compatible with a number of 2015 edition Samsung smartphones. Namely, the Galaxy Note 5, Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 Edge and the Galaxy S6 Edge+.
Samsung has also now confirmed that the Consumer Gear VR comes with improvements to both the feel and use of the Gear VR. In terms of the feel, the new version is equipped with new foam cushioning for a more comfortable wear. While the use has been improved thanks to the refining of the touchpad. On talking about the launch of the new Consumer Gear VR, CEO and President of IT & Mobile Division, Samsung Electronics, JK Shin, said “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.” As already noted earlier the cost of the device when it does arrive will be $99 and it is scheduled to begin shipping in November. In the meantime, you can check out how the new Consumer version of the gear VR looks in the images below.
