No more Innovator Editions or Development Kits for the Samsung Gear VR as the consumer version has been set for a November release date and priced at just $99. But what's the virtual reality headset like?
Unlike its first two iterations which were primarily geared towards tech enthusiasts and software developers, the Gear VR consumer edition is ready for the public. It can swallow Samsung's latest crop of smartphones including the Galaxy S6, S6 edge, Note 5 and S6 edge+, according to The Verge.
Per the website, the control scheme has also been updated. A cross-shaped depression with a small bump in the center is now on the Gear VR headset.
"Finding controls by touch alone is still a little awkward for most people, but this at least provides some hints," it said.
Samsung has also made its virtual reality headset more comfortable ditching the hard foam pads in favor of softer fabric. The South Korean tech giant is reportedly "going for more comfort and more portability" though changes might still happen between now and the Samsung Gear VR consumer release date.
According to Gizmag, the latest Gear VR is lighter than the previous Note 4 version.
"Making the [headset] lighter than it already was plays to its inherent advantages: phone in pocket, headset in backpack, instant VR everywhere you go."
Still, the Gear VR does come with limitations. Owing to its portable nature, it's not packing the same horsepower as the big boys: the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive.
"While you can turn your head in virtual reality with a [Google] Cardboard or a Gear VR, you can't lean forward or backward, stand or sit or walk, and you can't see your hands or feet in the virtual world," CNET said.
Then again, the Gear VR's raison d'être is "having lots of reasons to use it," The Verge said. Netflix and Twitch are already on board with "Minecraft" support reportedly in the works.
The Samsung Gear VR consumer release date is set around Black Friday in November. At $99, it's half the price of its predecessors.
