Samsung Gear VR headset for Galaxy S6 opens for preorders in the U.S. on April 24 at Best Buy
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Samsung has revealed that the version of its virtual reality (VR) headset that’s compatible with its Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge devices will be available for preorder starting April 24 through Best Buy. It will then go on general sale through Samsung and Best Buy’s website on May 8, followed by its retail outlets on May 15, where demonstrations will be available to potential buyers.
The Oculus-powered Gear VR Innovator Edition doesn’t have a screen of its own, similar to Google Cardboard, meaning you have to slip your device inside the front of the head-worn unit.
Above: Samsung Gear VR
Image Credit: Business Wire
While the original Samsung Gear VR unveiled last year was only compatible with the company’s Galaxy Note 4 phablet, the company did announce at Mobile World Congress last month that it would launch a version for its flagship smartphones too, thus significantly widening the target market.
Though the unit is on sale through consumer outlets, it’s not yet being pitched as a consumer-ready device, even though it will clearly appeal to many millions more people now that it supports the Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge. A consumer-focused version is expected to launch by the end of the year, according to a recent statement by Oculus VR chief technology officer John Carmack.
“Expanding Oculus virtual reality to the innovative Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge is a huge step towards helping tech enthusiasts get involved in this new revolution,” explained Max Cohen, head of mobile at Oculus, in a press release.
Samsung hasn’t revealed a price, but it’s probably safe to assume it will cost the same as the existing Galaxy Note 4 edition, which is $199.
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