The Samsung Gear VR Innovator Edition
Electronics maker Samsung unveiled its Gear VR Innovator Edition at consumer tech show IFA 2014 in Berlin, revealing that the virtual-reality headset will be powered by technology from Oculus VR.
John Carmack, CTO of Oculus VR, the Facebook-owned company behind the Oculus Rift headset, took to the stage at Samsung’s Unpacked press event in Berlin to explain the technology behind the Samsung-branded headset, focusing on its high-quality image resolution and performance.
Samsung has pitched this wearable device as a new way to consume mobile content through an immersive virtual-reality experience.
Equipped with the same 5.7-inch quad-HD Super AMOLED display as the Galaxy Note 4, the Gear VR embeds users in 360-degree 3D visuals, taking gaming, video entertainment and experiential education to another level.
To ensure a content ecosystem to make the device worthwhile, Samsung has partnered with a wide range of top-tier creators, including Marvel, DreamWorks, IMAX, Cirque du Soleil, Vevo, and Qualcomm to create optimised virtual-reality content, though availability will vary from market to market.
Soft, flexible cushioning and lightweight materials are intended to make the device as comfortable as possible and it’s completely wireless to allow freedom of movement.
Specifically targeting early adopters, VR enthusiasts and developers, the Samsung Gear VR Innovator Edition will be made available through select carriers this year.
