Samsung Gear VR headset glimpsed, branding reportedly confirmed with launch expected at IFA 2014

BY Evan Selleck

Published 8 Jul 2014

Samsung Gear VR headset

The Samsung-branded foray into virtual reality has been talked about for sometime now, with a report from Engadget last month detailing just what was going on behind the scenes to make something like this, a headset that utilizes a smartphone to play virtual reality games and use VR apps, a reality. Now, we reportedly get our first look at the device, plus a few key details.

According to a new report from SamMobile, Samsung is indeed gearing up to launch their first VR headset. Last month, we heard that the accessory would take on the Gear branding, which Samsung has made famous with their wearables in the past, courtesy of a registered trademark from the company. Now, we have our first glimpse of the rumored headset, plus a pair of important details for good measure.

As we can see from the headset itself, it’s quite similar, at least in theory, to Google’s Cardboard, which set up a makeshift visor around an Android-powered smartphone to make use of the sensors that are already present in the handheld. That’s reportedly the same situation here with the Gear VR headset, with just a lot less cardboard. You’ll plug the phone into the headset via a reported USB connection, and then be able to make use of the accessory.

Samsung Gear VR headset branding

As far as branding goes, SamMobile has confirmed, and supported with the image right above, that the Gear VR will indeed bring that branding to the market when it launches at some unknown date in the future. Additionally, it’s also believed, and expected, that Samsung will announce the headset at IFA 2014, which is right around the corner.

Could you see yourself wearing a VR headset out in public, with your phone attached to play some games?

[via SamMobile]