Samsung is taking full advantage of its partnership with Oculus. The company has announced a new version of its Gear VR headset; this time with support for a new controller. Also, this Gear VR doesn’t have a new name.
This new Gear VR works in the same way as its predecessor, and we’re pretty sure it’s still the same device. The hardware is pretty much the same. It also supports the same Galaxy S7, Galaxy S7 edge, Galaxy Note 5, Galaxy S6 edge+, Galaxy S6 edge, and Galaxy S6. Support for the USB Type-C connectors on the newer devices comes in the form of a connector supplied in the box.
The new feature of the Gear VR is the controller. Oddly enough, there’s no special name for this controller; although it is apparently built in conjunction with Oculus. The controller has an accelerometer for pointing in virtual reality, and really was something missing from earlier Gear VR models.
A touchpad, home button, and back button are all located on the controller. This moves the interface away from the headset; as was done in the older Gear VR models. It sounds like a more natural and ergonomic control scheme, since constantly prodding the visor wasn’t very comfortable.
The controller runs on two AAA batteries, and Samsung estimates that it will last for about 40 days. Provided that the controller is not used for more than two hours a day.
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