Samsung XR wearable could become an industry response to Apple’s MR headset

Samsung just announced quite a number of new devices, including its usual Galaxy S flagship smartphone trio. While this is normal fare for Samsung this time of the year, it made a few choice statements that suddenly got heads turning and, to some extent, scratching. Samsung practically revealed that it is working on an “extended reality” or XR wearable device, pretty much a headset, something that it hasn’t done in half a decade. While it was mostly an announcement of intent rather than a teaser of an actual product, it name-dropped a few big names in the tech industry as its partners in this endeavor. While the fact that Samsung is again making a headset isn’t really a world-shattering revelation, the timing of all these hints seems to be a little bit too convenient not to put it in light of Apple’s own upcoming mixed reality device.

Designer: Samsung (via The Washington Post)

Samsung is really no stranger to such headsets and is probably too familiar with their problems as well. It started out with the smartphone-powered GearVR, which it worked on together with pre-Facebook Oculus back in 2015. And then there was the HMD Odyssey which was one of the few Windows Mixed Reality headsets that launched and sputtered out. In both cases, the tech giant has taken a step back along with the rest of its peers, making this announcement all the more intriguing and suspicious.

These days, there are very few notable players in the VR and AR space, with Meta (formerly known as Facebook) and HTC Vive still competing for top slots. Microsoft has pretty much forgotten about its HoloLens, and Google is being typically Google-ish about its remaining ARCore platform. Surprisingly, these are the very same companies that Samsung will be working with for its XR wearable, bringing the who’s who of Big Tech together with a single mission.

Details about the device itself are scant, but Samsung did let it out that it will be powered by a Qualcomm chipset and run an unannounced version of Android made specifically for headsets. More important than the hardware, though, Samsung’s name-dropping is meant to suggest that it is establishing a more stable ecosystem before it actually launches the product. The reason why many attempts at this niche market failed was that they were too focused on the product without an ecosystem giving it a reason to exist in the first place.

Apple isn’t going to have that problem when it launches its own MR device this spring, given how all its products pretty much live within Apple’s universe. Its rivals, however, don’t have something like it and will have to join forces to deliver something worthwhile. Of course, these companies, Apple included, still need to make a convincing argument about why you would want to wear a screen on your face. And as these same companies experienced, that’s not a particularly easy proposition to sell.

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This mixed reality headset gives you a cyberpunk makeover for the Metaverse

Some people might welcome the Metaverse more willingly if they get to wear a cool headset like this.

In the ideal future, or at least in the future envisioned by Metaverse proponents, the virtual and the physical will be so integrated that you will no longer need special gear to see holograms and virtual characters in your surroundings. Until that day comes, however, we will have to settle for wearing VR and AR headsets, collectively referred to as “mixed reality,” many of which still come in bulky, uncomfortable, or unattractive designs. We are, however, getting to the point where hardware is getting more compact and manageable, and one concept tries to imagine a more stylish headset that wouldn’t look out of place in a futuristic world, especially if our world is really heading into a more cyberpunk-like future.

Designer: Anoop VM

VR and AR headsets have always looked geeky, but they don’t necessarily have to be that way. Current designs are largely limited by the hardware components that have to be crammed inside, but that situation isn’t going to last forever. Eventually, those components will become so small that it would be possible to have the same amount of hardware inside a much more compact headset that can be as stylish as it is functional.

Maya is an exploration into what a mixed headset can look like when all those pieces have fallen into place. Its sleek design and visor-like form easily mark it as something out of a cyberpunk or sci-fi world. That said, the designer also took inspiration from other visions of the future, particularly those with cleaner environments and less dreary atmospheres. The result is a headset that won’t look out of place, whichever direction our world takes.

The mixed reality headset concept isn’t actually that far from what current technologies and designs exist today. There is, for example, a USB-C port that can be connected to an external computer, as well as cups that serve both as anchor points on the head as well as earphones. The headset, however, is also designed for more comfort and flexibility than most headsets are today. The front, for example, can be tilted up to give the wearer an unobstructed (and non-augmented) view of the real world when not in use.

Such designs will be necessary if mixed reality is to become more approachable, even for geekier crowds. Not everyone will be keen on strapping a headset on their heads to dive into the Metaverse or other virtual worlds, especially if they will look ridiculous wearing it. Ideally, we’d be wearing less conspicuous gear like AR glasses, but the Maya mixed reality headset concept looks like a more reachable design for now, and it will definitely appeal to some classes of people who want to rock a cyberpunk style even in real life.

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HTC Viverse wants to make the Metaverse work seamlessly on any device

The Metaverse is probably best enjoyed using a dedicated headset, but HTC’s idea is to make it available everywhere, including inside a car.

The term “Metaverse” has been thrown around before, but it was really Facebook, now rebranded as Meta, that really started hyping it up. Considering it also owns VR company Oculus, it’s really no surprise that it is focusing on that aspect of the experience. A true Metaverse, however, might actually require more than just one class of device to be truly immersive. That’s the spiel that HTC is making for its equally amorphous “Viverse,” but it shouldn’t be a shock to anyone that it also revolves around the company’s VR headsets.

Designer: HTC Vive

Vive and Oculus have long been rivals in the VR space and are the two biggest names when it comes to VR hardware. Some, however, might argue that, just like with its smartphone business, HTC has already silently left the race. Its presence at MWC 2022 tries to send a strong message that it is far from being down for the count, but, as expected, its message about the Metaverse still borders on being ambiguous.

At its simplest, the Metaverse is an amalgamation of physical reality and the digital realm, and it is best experienced with VR glasses. HTC’s spin on this concept, which it dubs “Viverse,” sounds and looks pretty familiar to what we’ve seen so far. It basically involves being dumped into a virtual world and interacting with avatars of other people, most of whom are represented in stylized or unrealistic characters.

What makes HTC’s vision slightly different from most Metaverse implementations is that it doesn’t want to be confined to just VR headsets. At the moment, it does work primarily on the Vive Flow, the company’s current flagship hardware, because that is the primary gateway into a virtual realm. Compared to typical VR headsets, the HTC Vive Flow is designed to be lightweight and even resemble sunglasses, just gigantic ones in comparison. The goal, however, is to make Viverse work on tablets, smartphones, and PCs, or basically anywhere that has a web browser that can run XR or eXtended Reality experiences, allowing anyone to jump into the virtual world at any time from any place.

Vive already has some of the scaffolding in place, thanks to its years in the VR market. It takes no effort, for example, for Viverse users to hold virtual meetings and parties thanks to Vive Sync and Engage. The Metaverse, however, also opens the door for more experiences, some of them naturally involving cryptocurrencies and NFTs. You can meet with a friend or loved one at a museum, presumably represented by how they really look in the real world, and buy an expensive piece of NFT art.

HTC also collaborated with a new partner to bring this Metaverse experience to transportation. More than just enjoying games and movies in cars, holoride can associate the vehicle’s movement and direction with what happens in the virtual world. There could be a new experience at every turn, literally. This experience could be available as early as the second half of 2022.

Vive’s MWC 2022 booth showcases the seeds of the Viveverse, which HTC admits is still in the conceptualization stage. Some features, like Sync and Engage, have already been in use for years, while others still need some time to become a reality. Whether HTC will last long enough to see the vision’s fulfillment is a different question entirely.

For all the hype and criticism it gets, the Metaverse does have the potential to change the way we live, how products are designed, and how we experience the world. Many implementations, including HTC Viverse, try to focus on the social aspects of the platform, allowing people to get closer despite being apart. Ironically, as the MWC 2022 showroom floor also demonstrates, the VR headsets we don to experience this Metaverse can actually be isolating, at least from the people already within your vicinity. Opening up the Metaverse to more devices will help free people from those restraints and make this mashed-up reality a bit more realistic.

The post HTC Viverse wants to make the Metaverse work seamlessly on any device first appeared on Yanko Design.

Unique VR Headsets designed to break tech barriers + prove this innovative trend is here to stay!

Immersing ourselves in a simulated world, far away from reality is always fun. And hence, Virtual Reality has been gaining a lot of momentum these days! Its applications and possibilities are endless. VR is extending its scope beyond gaming and providing functionality in a variety of fields. From business, education, entertainment to even fitness, VR is being utilized in almost all industries. And we’ve curated a collection of exciting VR designs that prove the true value of this emerging technology. From a virtual reality treadmill to the world’s tiniest VR headset – every single one of these designs will make you pro VR all the way. Enjoy!

Interestingly the internet is going crazy with the freshly leaked images of the insect eyes like the HTC headset that gives off the futuristic vibe. The person in question is trusted leaker Evan Blass who has posted convincing images of HTC’s next-gen VR headset. The big question arises – will this HTC VR headset be able to compete with Oculus Quest 2? Evan has been posting a constant stream of tweets with photos of the said headset, building anticipation for the tech community. For neutral viewers, these images give a much better idea of how the Vive Flow VR headset will look like. It is not much different than the Project Proton concept headset in terms of the alienating presence.

Following the trends of today in regard to retro aesthetics and gameplay mobility, Tsai reimagined Nintendo’s virtual reality experience with Nintendo Switch Joy-Glasses. Tsai recognized Nintendo Switch’s hybridity that allows it to transform from a handheld gaming tablet to a plugged-in video game console for the television. This gives Nintendo Switch players the option of bringing a gaming console with them anywhere, making Nintendo Switch a mobile gaming device. This mobile hybridity gives the Switch a leg-up, and with today’s gamers being so nostalgic, it’s no wonder VR games like Pokémon Go are such global successes. Further, on the game’s market triumph, Tsai writes, “Successfully tapping into 1990s nostalgia, [Pokémon Go] is attracting millions of Millennials…Taking advantage of this retro hype, it’s about time to refashion existing technology and create something unique to connect with more recent generations.”

ConceptsiPhone has created a render of the two upcoming devices by Apple and mashed them together in a video dubbed iPhone 13 VR for creative writer’s delight. The VR headset is open to any imagination possible, and the folks over at ConceptsiPhone have taken that opportunity to show the world how the mixed reality headset will be like. It looks plush (after all it’s Apple) and is in sync with the design principles Apple has put in place for the headset – comfort and lightweight aesthetics. The strap looks reassuring as far as ergonomics go while the padding around the viewable area ensures utmost comfort. The concept shown here retains the iPhone 12 Pro’s DNA for the most part of it, and when you have a look at the rear camera module, it’s fresh nostalgia. The camera bump looks so strikingly similar to the newly launched Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra flagship.

The latest version of XTAL comes with a host of technical upgrades. Most significant of which is the high-density LCDs with 4k resolution per eye (making a total of 8k horizontally) giving a crystal clear view assisted by foveated rendering capabilities, improved lenses with a 180-degree field of view, and eye-tracking capable of running at 210 fps. That’s not all. It comes with an embedded Ultraleap hand-tracking sensor and conveniently connects to a PC via a VirtualLink cable. Oh, and did I mention that you can get an AR mixed reality module as an add-on? Pretty awesome, don’t you think? So impressive that the US Airforce has already placed an order for the latest headsets to train their pilots in simulations. The people at VRgineers have even designed a helmet-mountable version for such cases.

The creative minds sitting in Facebook’s Reality Labs (FRL), however, have been working on making VR headsets less clunky/bulky, and more like something you’d want to carry around and wear at work or at home. Facebook Reality Lab’s latest prototype VR wearable is, to mildly put it, ridiculously thin, measuring at just around 9mm. Designed to look like a pair of wayfarers, these glasses actually hold display units inside them, and Facebook’s research in viewing optics technology has helped them condense the headset from something that feels like a toaster strapped to your face, to a pair of frames that look like a pretty slick pair of shades.

What the GOOVIS Young changes about VR is that it embraces the technology for entertainment purposes, and does it in the best way possible… not by being a face-mounted computer, but rather a face-mounted display that’s compatible with practically any of your devices. With a 1080p display on the inside that’s designed to feel like a theater with an 800-inch screen, the GOOVIS Young is a universal VR display you can connect to your phone, laptop, tablet, set-top box, or even your console, allowing it to act as a dedicated display for everything between working, gaming, watching movies, browsing the internet, or even doing the odd stuff like tapping into your drone’s camera for incredible HD POV-ing.

With an undeniably better form factor, and better image quality too, Panasonic’s VR glasses are classier and well, ‘glassier’ (as opposed to the massive ski-goggles that most VR headsets look like). Fitted with micro-OLED panels on the inside, the VR glasses can afford to be made smaller and have much better clarity too. In fact, unlike most VR headsets, you almost don’t notice the pixels in Panasonic’s product, allowing your VR world to be much more immersive because of its higher resolution. Panasonic also claims that they’re the first-ever VR glasses to support HDR, or a high dynamic range, allowing colors, saturation, brightness, and contrast to all be incredibly lifelike. The glasses (they’re obviously not headsets) also come fitted with Panasonic’s own audio technology, using Technics drivers in those tiny earbuds to provide crystal clear audio.

I bet you’re just as baffled as I am looking at Canon’s new RF5.2mm F2.8 L Dual Fisheye Lens. It almost looks anthropomorphic, with the way the two eyes stare at you, but in fact, what’s really marvelous is where Canon seems to be going with their cameras. DSLRs and Mirrorless cameras are already some of the most powerful shooters out there, and rather than ditching that entire ecosystem of cameras to move to newer camera types – like drones and AR/VR cameras, Canon has just embraced good old-fashioned innovation instead, with a newfangled lens that is compatible with their existing EOS range of cameras. The lens, when paired with the company’s 1.5.0 firmware update, enables the humble yet capable 2D camera to shoot SBS 3D content. Pair the lens with the EOS R5 mirrorless camera and suddenly you can perform high-resolution video recording at up to 8K DCI 30p and 4K DCI 60p.

Compatible with a variety of games, movies, and multimedia content on platforms like YouTube VR, the Feelreal can generate a variety of aromas and smells, making you feel like you’re in the moment, whether it’s a forest, a race-track, or a battlefield. The Feelreal comes with a series of 9 aroma vials that combine to create as many as 255 different types of distinct smells, from flowers and petrichor, to food, to grease or gunpowder. The Feelreal goes the extra mile by providing a tactile experience too! It comes with its own water-spray, microheater (to simulate heat), and fan (to simulate wind), adding different layers to your audiovisual VR experience.

The Omni One by Virtuix – a virtual reality treadmill that’ll allow gamers to walk or run in 360-degrees inside video games and other virtual environments. The possibilities with Omni are unmatchable – it not only lets you walk but even jump, kneel, and crouch in the gaming world by mimicking the action on the treadmill in real life. Gamers who’ve tasted the VR flavor would have heard the name Virtuix before. The start-up is currently selling a commercial version of the Omni – “Omni Pro” – to entertainment venues in over 45 countries. Now, Virtuix is coming for the first time to our homes with Omni One treadmill aimed at pushing the bounds of in-home entertainment previously set by VR headsets.

A sleek Nintendo interactive headset + more VR designs that prove this tech trend is here to stay!

Immersing ourselves in a simulated world, far away from reality is always fun. And hence, Virtual Reality has been gaining a lot of momentum these days! Its applications and possibilities are endless. VR is extending its scope beyond gaming and providing functionality in a variety of fields. From business, education, entertainment to even fitness, VR is being utilized in almost all industries. And we’ve curated a collection of exciting VR designs that prove the true value of this emerging technology. From a virtual reality treadmill to a VR-equipped workstation set up, every single one of these designs will make you pro VR all the way. Enjoy!

Following the trends of today in regard to retro aesthetics and gameplay mobility, Tsai reimagined Nintendo’s virtual reality experience with Nintendo Switch Joy-Glasses. Tsai recognized Nintendo Switch’s hybridity that allows it to transform from a handheld gaming tablet to a plugged-in video game console for the television. This gives Nintendo Switch players the option of bringing a gaming console with them anywhere, making Nintendo Switch a mobile gaming device. This mobile hybridity gives the Switch a leg-up, and with today’s gamers being so nostalgic, it’s no wonder VR games like Pokémon Go are such global successes. Further, on the game’s market triumph, Tsai writes, “Successfully tapping into 1990s nostalgia, [Pokémon Go] is attracting millions of Millennials…Taking advantage of this retro hype, it’s about time to refashion existing technology and create something unique to connect with more recent generations.”

The Omni One by Virtuix – a virtual reality treadmill that’ll allow gamers to walk or run in 360-degrees inside video games and other virtual environments. The possibilities with Omni are unmatchable – it not only lets you walk but even jump, kneel, and crouch in the gaming world by mimicking the action on the treadmill in real life. Gamers who’ve tasted the VR flavor would have heard the name Virtuix before. The start-up is currently selling a commercial version of the Omni – “Omni Pro” – to entertainment venues in over 45 countries. Now, Virtuix is coming for the first time to our homes with Omni One treadmill aimed at pushing the bounds of in-home entertainment previously set by VR headsets.

With the unprecedented shift towards remote working because of the Coronavirus pandemic, the team at Gravity Sketch has prioritized the deployment of their latest cloud collaboration feature. Available within the cloud-based product LandingPad, Gravity Sketch’s cloud collaboration feature (codenamed Co-Creation) allows designers, teams, studios, and clients to collectively visualize, ideate, and refine product ideas. Merely wearing the VR headset transports you into the virtual workspace, allowing wearers to use the remote controller to highlight parts of a design, make edits/suggestions, or leave feedback. The tool has been used in enterprises with large design teams (Ford, Nissan, Reebok), but given the current circumstances with most people working remotely, Gravity Sketch hopes the publicly available collaborative platform will help teams work better together from their remote workspaces.

feelreal_vr_aroma_1

Compatible with the Oculus Rift, Go, HTC Vive, Samsung Galaxy VR, and the Playstation VR, the Feelreal snaps to the bottom of the headset, sitting right in front of the nose. It then releases smells that complement the media you’re watching by simulating, stimulating, or relaxing. Compatible with a variety of games, movies, and multimedia content on platforms like YouTube VR, the Feelreal can generate a variety of aromas and smells, making you feel like you’re in the moment, whether it’s a forest, a race-track, or a battlefield. The Feelreal comes with a series of 9 aroma vials that combine to create as many as 255 different types of distinct smells, from flowers and petrichor to food, to grease or gunpowder. The Feelreal goes the extra mile by providing a tactile experience too! It comes with its own water-spray, microheater (to simulate heat), and fan (to simulate wind), adding different layers to your audiovisual VR experience.

What appears as a simple computer desk setup turns out to be so much more. For starters, Couto’s workstation setup, “Future of Work” features a retractable display screen that detaches into a foldable tablet/laptop. The simple OS desktop functions as the workstation base, where files can be created and stored. Then, when Couto needs a tablet or laptop for easy portability, the same files will be made available on the go. In addition to the desktop’s detachable screen, Couto’s design features another tablet that can attach itself to the desktop for an extended display, offering quick file sharing and supplemental portability. Finally, Couto’s “Future of Work” setup comes equipped with VR compatibility, providing a headset that turns into a dashboard where all of the work station’s appliances are connected. The integration of VR allows for seamless file transferring between devices, like sharing CAD models between devices and other file formats.

Apple’s mixed reality headset has been in the works for quite some time now, and a couple of months ago it became apparent that the lightweight VR headset will be coming in 2022, with the Apple Glasses to follow soon after. On the flip side, the iPhone 13 is destined to arrive this fall, and like all times it is already the topic of interest in the tech circles. While iPhone 13 and the Apple VR headset cannot be launched in the same given timeframe – still it doesn’t deter imaginative designers from mustering up how the two products will look together. ConceptsiPhone has created a render of the two upcoming devices by Apple and mashed them together in a video dubbed iPhone 13 VR for creative writer’s delight. The VR headset is open to any imagination possible, and the folks over at ConceptsiPhone have taken that opportunity to show the world how the mixed reality headset will be like. It looks plush (after all it’s Apple) and is in sync with the design principles Apple has put in place for the headset – comfort and lightweight aesthetics.

Building upon their previously released DualSense wireless controller, which changed the way games “feel” through immersive haptic feedback, the new VR controller for the PS5 also provides haptic feedback and takes on an orb-like shape that allows users to move their hands freely and naturally when gaming. The ergonomic design behind the new VR controller was also tested by a range of users with different hand sizes to ensure that they work for everyone. In addition to the controller’s added haptic feedback, the new VR controllers are outfitted with the same adaptive trigger technology found on the DualSense wireless controllers. The adaptive trigger buttons on Sony’s VR controllers add tension that gamers can really feel when plucking an arrow or pulling on a rope, adding to the multisensory experience of PS5.

beyond_vr_2

beyond_vr_1

Yes, virtual reality is a rather wonderful piece of technology that lets you immerse yourself in digital surroundings, but it’s important to remember that it’s also a wonderful window into experiencing things we can’t. Whether it’s used for tourism or as an empathy machine, VR has a massive role to play in education, by allowing people to use their most powerful sense to experience something. Beyond VR aims at taking that approach by letting children use VR as not just an entertainment device, but almost like an experiential encyclopedia. Made for children from ages 4 to 12, the Beyond VR is a headset and camera kit that allows kids to interact with and socialize with children across the world, allowing them to experience life across different countries and cultures. Beyond VR is designed to be a social tool that revolutionizes social networking, taking the traditional keyboard and UI away from the experience and allowing people to truly live in each other’s shoes.

What the GOOVIS Young changes about VR is that it embraces the technology for entertainment purposes, and does it in the best way possible… not by being a face-mounted computer, but rather a face-mounted display that’s compatible with practically any of your devices. With a 1080p display on the inside that’s designed to feel like a theater with an 800-inch screen, the GOOVIS Young is a universal VR display you can connect to your phone, laptop, tablet, set-top box, or even your console, allowing it to act as a dedicated display for everything between working, gaming, watching movies, browsing the internet, or even doing the odd stuff like tapping into your drone’s camera for incredible HD POV-ing.

mild_vr_4

mild_vr_12

The Mild VR headset is designed to look familiar. While it is a VR device, it looks like it was designed to look good while worn, and not like you strapped a toaster to your face. The Mild comes with a fabric overlay on a plastic body. Mimicking the design of eye masks, they fit comfortably over the eyes while making it look less obvious like you’re wearing a multimedia device on your head. The Mild even comes with its own controller with a joypad and wrist-straps, allowing you to manipulate 360° content with ease.

HP’s Reverb G2 VR headset delivers Valve Index features at $599

At the moment, the Valve Index is one of the best VR headsets you can buy. The problem is that it's also one of the most expensive, which makes HP's latest headset, the Reverb G2, intriguing. Designed with help from Valve and Microsoft, the G2 is a $...

How To Choose The Best VR Headset 2016

How to Choose the best VR headset 2016

With a number of options available for those who are looking for virtual reality (VR) headsets, things become a little difficult while zeroing down on a particular headset to purchase. Moreover, with different companies advertising different features, and slightly misguiding terminology, a detailed guide is required to help you choose the right headset your money can buy.

image credit

Firstly, a VR headset is not the same as a 3D headset. A VR headset simulates your presence in the environment, while a 3D device creates just a simulated environment. It is safe to assume that VR headsets are a step above 3D technology, for they simulate your own presence in the game you are playing or the movie you are watching.

A VR headset uses sensors such as gyroscopes and accelerometers to change the position of the images depending on your head’s movement, helping you to create an illusion that you are present in the 3D environment for real. Some of the more expensive VR headsets also track your body movements, making you feel as if you are walking inside the simulated environment. However, these devices tend to be pricier.

In this VR headset guide, let us take a look at the questions you should ask yourself while purchasing a VR headset. This will help you buy something that you would love using, without feeling like you spent more than what you probably could.

After reading this article on the best way to pick your VR headset, don’t forget to go over our Best VR headset 2016 list to pick the one which is the most suitable for you.

 

  1. Is it Wireless?

It should be known that there are two kinds of VR headsets available in the market: PC headsets and mobile headsets. PC headsets connect to your computer and cannot be used on their own. These tend to be expensive, especially when they come loaded with features. Oculus Rift, Samsung Gear and HTC Vive are some of the best examples. Smartphone headsets on the other hand are usually mobile, and can be used on their own. They make use of smartphones and the ability to use mobile apps to bring you great content. Google Cardboard is very cheap, though there are many expensive mobile headsets too. Plastic VR headsets tend to be more expensive, but are mobile too. Samsung Gear VR – the Innovator Edition is an example. Unless you are looking for something expensive, to get a decent VR experience, you can choose a mobile VR headset and experience virtual reality in a small budget.

  1. Is It Interactive?

There are a number of ways you can interact with the simulated environment. Your eyeball movements, head movements, using the controller and sometimes even your body movements can be used to interact with the virtual reality environment. The extent of the ability of your headset to interact with the simulated environment depends on how advanced the technology is, and that also translates to the money you are ready to spend. The basic eyeball movements and head movement tracking should be enough to provide you with a decent VR experience.

  1. How Powerful Is It?

The more powerful VR headsets come with superior motion tracking sensors, higher density pixels and dual controllers. They also have more precision when it comes to motion-tracking and the advanced gyroscopes and accelerometers help you to experience a simulated virtual reality environment that feels hyper-real. Oculus, HTC Vive and others are in this category. These usually cost between $600 and $800. Even more affordable mobile headsets can be purchased for less than $100, with decent motion-tracking elements and pixels. You just need to read more reviews.

  1. Does It Support Your Device?

Most of the times, people do not realize that every VR headset is not compatible with the devices they own. Just because a headset is iOS or Android compatible does not mean it should be compatible with your device. Ensure that you read the fine print and check what is the screen size limits within which a particular headset works. You might also want to check the mobile OS version above which the chosen headset is compatible. Otherwise, you might end up buying something that may not be of any use. If you are using Windows Mobile devices or some other mobile OS, your choices will shrink drastically.

  1. Does It Have Enough Content?

Though there are a number of great headsets with powerful features, they do not necessarily have access to great content. You need to be able to play the most number of games and watch the most number of video content in order to make the optimum utilization of your device. Hence, it makes sense to buy a device that allows you to access the maximum range of content. Google Cardboard, for instance, has a wide range of content available. However, the devices are not as advanced as some of the more expensive ones are.

  1. What Kind of Lens and Screen Technology Does It Uses?

The cheaper ones use plastic lenses, whereas the more advanced ones may use Japanese glass lens of more than 40 mm. The better and more advanced a device’s lenses are, the more superior your experience will be. Plastic lenses tend to lose their sharpness over a period of time, unlike the glass ones. Also, you should look at the kind of screen technology that the VR headset uses. Different companies use different technologies and when you read the specs, you become aware of how to choose a headset based on its screen technology.

  1. What Is the Field of View Values For The VR Headset?

The human eye, with its peripheral view of 180 degrees in resting phase and 270 degrees with eyeball movements, can give you a wide range of vision. This field of view can be enhanced with the help of headsets. Star VR for instance has a 210 degree field of view. If you look for headsets that have a higher field of view, you might be able to see more of the same virtual reality environment. However, field of view should not be the sole criteria to choose your VR headset.

  1. What Is The Pixel Resolution?

You should try to choose the headset with the highest resolution your money can buy. If the resolution is higher, you will be able to see images more clearly. The minimum resolution should be at least 1080p. While 1080p is decent enough, it is still not something great. With this, we must also take pixels into account. Many reviewers suggest choosing headsets that are less than 3ms so that there is less motion blurring per pixels per second. Oculus Rift and HTC Vive surpass most devices available in the market today, in this context.

  1. What Features Does It Have?

This is quite easy to get. Though you should not be counting all the frilly features a manufacturer advertises, you should still be getting a few more than the ones you have shortlisted. Look for decent lens, decent resolution, usability, user interface, certain extra features which the manufacturer might advertise, etc. While basic features are important, certain extra ones will not harm. Yet, this is also the time to question if the features that are being advertised are really what you want. Sometimes, you may not need the features that are advertised and hence, you can choose something more affordable and save money.

  1. What about Controllers?

Some of the simplest devices are just made from cardboard boxes and lenses, and the only control you have is your finger. You just need to stick your finger into a hole and tap the screen. However, better controllers come with at least one input. Some of the fancier devices let your eyeballs control the device, though this may get stressful at times. Look for a decent controller that will be provided along with the headset. Do not fall for marketing gimmicks that advertise fancy controllers which may not be of any use.

  1. Does it Have Any Unique Sensors?

Most VR headsets today come with motion sensors limited to eye movement and head movement. Some may not even come with that. Others may have more advanced accelerometers and gyroscopes. Still others may have the ability to track your body movement as well, so that you get a feeling of full immersion in virtual reality. You can shortlist the headsets based on the kind of sensors they use, and also the quality of these sensors. Some devices may come with unique sensors that give you enhanced experience of simulation.

  1. Is It Comfortable to Wear?

Most headsets are not comfortable to wear, especially when they are not padded or made from high quality fabric or leather. Some plastic ones may make your skin irritated and certain kind of straps and frames can hurt your nose bridge or downright give you a headache. Few other headsets can increases the chances of migraines and vertigo, especially as central nervous system is involved in processing simulated experiences. For this reason, try to find a headset that is marketed as comfortable and lists migraine, vertigo and pain and skin irritation as issues that are tackled.

  1. Does it Offer Support for Eyesight Problems?

A lot of us wear contact lenses but many choose to wear glasses to correct their myopia or short-sightedness. Even those who wear contact lenses usually go home and remove them after a long day at work. To wear contact lenses again to watch movies or play games is downright uncomfortable. For this reason, a number of headset manufacturers now make it an option for people to wear glasses within the headset itself. A few other expensive devices feature vision correction technologies, which means, you don’t have to wear either contact lenses or glasses while wearing these headsets.

  1. Can It Be Carried Around Easily?

A big reason why VR headsets are still not very popular is because they tend to be bulky. However, the newer entrant devices are getting smaller, much like their expensive brethren. Look for VR headsets that are not very bulky, heavy or voluminous. When you choose a headset that can easily be carried around, you will be able to have entertainment on demand, no matter where you are. However, the more ergonomic a device is, it also tends to be more expensive. So if price is a matter of concern, you may have to forego on this feature.

  1. Can You afford It?

It is no secret that you get what you pay for. If you can afford a great device like the HTC Vive, you will have the best VR experience your money can buy. However, if you are not able to spend more than a few dollars, Google Cardboard is all probably you can afford. However, some VR experience is still better than no VR experience at all. So, it makes sense to invest in a device that you can afford, instead of feeling intimated by the more expensive ones.

  1. Are you Getting a Bang for The Buck?

Just because a headset is expensive does not mean it has to be good. A number of companies offer headsets that are downright expensive but lack in features or even in technology. Make sure that you get more than what you pay for. This means, you will have to read a lot of customer reviews and professional editorials regarding each product you have shortlisted. Some VR headsets actually give you a bang for the buck you spend. Those should be the ones you should purchase.

  1. Is It Easily Available?

There are a few great headsets that are not easily available. Some other headsets may be sold out and a few more may be on the waitlist. When you decide to buy a VR headset, make sure that it is available where you live. Availability should also be considered based on content. If the device you choose is great and is also available, but does not have enough content, it is not a great choice. So, when choosing a VR headset, take availability into consideration.

  1. Does it Look Good?

Last but not the least, the device you purchase should also be attractive to look at. Aesthetic sensibility is one of the most important criteria when choosing any device. As VR headsets are something you are going to wear on your head, you should choose something that looks good as well. While technology and comfort should be your top priority, consider looks as criteria too, before making the final decision. After all, you can’t tell who will drop by when you are engrossed in your movie, while wearing a headset.

Have we missed any other criteria?

While this is quite an exhaustive list of all the criteria that you should take into account while purchasing VR headsets, we may have missed out on a few. If you think we have, which criteria should be added to this list and why? What other aspects of a VR headset do you consider before making a purchase? Do let us know in the comments section below.

 

The Best VR Headsets

best vr headsets 2016

Virtual reality is longer limited to a niche audience like back in the 1990s. Though the concept started in the 1960s with the advent of immersive stereoscopic videos, things really started to pick up in the 1970s, when interactive realistic experiences were offered in viewing devices. However, the best of the devices were available in labs and many of them were too large to carry around.

Fast forward to 2016, the virtual reality (VR) device market is emerging and everyone wants to try it and see for themselves. Today, you can highly efficient, computerized VR devices that work in tandem with your cellphones, by making use of mobile applications. In fact, venerable publications such as The New York Times have begun to offer content dedicated to VR headsets, in an attempt to bring a more interactive experience to content they publish.

The smartphone-phone powered VR headsets are a fry cry from the previous virtual reality devices, which often were very clunky and exorbitantly priced, even if they were available outside scientific labs. In this article, we have shortlisted some of the best VR headsets available today. Take a look at them and do let us know if you managed to grab one of these.

Pasonomi VR Headset

Pasonomi is specifically designed to be used with smartphones and can be a valuable addition while watching movies on the big screen. You could consider the Pasonomi as your own private 3D cinema. Most importantly, the makers claim that the headset has been designed for all age groups, making it perfect to be used by the elderly and also by children. Many old people often complain about feeling fatigued or dizzy but not with the Pasonomi. This stylishly designed headset ensures that uncomfortable physiological responses are avoided thanks to the spherical resin lens materials. The best feature of this headset has to be the fact that it is environmentally friendly. Pasonomi is compatible with iPhones 4 and above, and most premium Android devices. At $30, it is also one of the more affordable VR headsets available online.

Linkcool VR01 3D Headset

A number of people feel intimidated by the prices some of the more expensive VR headsets command. However, there are a lot of great headsets that do not burn a hole in your pockets. Linkcool VR01 3D headset is one such device that costs just $15.94 after discount. This nifty gadget comes with an adjustable distance between cellphones and lens, making it suitable to be used by people with different vision issues. You can use the Linkcool headset with all iOS and Android devices with screen sizes between 4.7 inches and 6 inches. Most people who use this like its comfort and ease of use, though the immersion quality may not be as good as the more expensive devices available in the market.

Samsung Gear VR Innovator Edition

If you have a Samsung Galaxy S6, you might want to try the Samsung Gear VR Innovator Edition. This is not currently available but you can always leave a message for them to put it up for sale again. The device is compatible with Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge. You can find a lot of content thanks to Oculus and Samsung both playing a part in this one. However, the only catch is, it’s currently unavailable and it is not clear if it will be available again. It is also a certified refurbished product, which means though it’s been used previously, you will not find any evidence of someone having it used previously.

Ergonomic Sarlar VR Glasses

If there is something that stops people from using VR headsets continuously, it is the fact that they tend to cause eye strain. Many ophthalmologists advise people not to wear them continuously because of the fatigue that badly designed VR headsets cause. However, Sarlar VR Glasses are specifically designed to be easy on your eyes. These headsets exert zero pressure on your eyes and ensure that your lower eyelids remain stress-free. It is designed in such a manner that the headband does not exert pressure on your nose bridge and eyelids, making it easier for you to watch movies, play games and engage in other media for prolonged periods. Sarlar VR Glasses are compatible with most cellphones with screen sizes between 4 inches and 6.5 inches, making this device more accessible. At $23.99, this VR headset is compatible with not only iOS and Android devices, but also Microsoft phones.

Myopia-proof Motoraux Movie Visor VR Headsets

A lot of people are unable to use VR headsets because they need to wear regular glasses to correct their shortsightedness. Shortsightedness, which is also known by the name of myopia, causes the sufferer to not see things at a distance clearly. They need to wear glasses in order to correct their vision. The Motoraux headset has been designed with myopic people in mind. If you are shortsighted and wear glasses to correct your vision, all you need to do is, insert your regular glasses into the headset and then wear the whole contraption on your head. This device is compatible with iOS, Android and PC phone series with screen sizes between 4 and 5.9 inches. Originally priced at $62.99, it is now available for just $29.99 after a big discount. The headset also boasts of a great 3D immersive experience.

LeNest VR Headset

If you are looking for a premium headset at a mainstream price, the LeNest VR Headset comes at a steal. It costs just $26.88 after a discount of nearly 76%. This device can be used by those who have myopia as well. The LeNest VR Headset can be used with all smartphones under the screen size of 6 inches. The adjustable head straps are made of high grade perforated leather material so that the pressure on your nose ridge and lower eyelids is reduced. The 42 mm diameter lens sets this headset apart from the usual 35mm lens, bringing more clarity and immersive experience.

VRKiX Virtual Reality 3D Glasses

Sometimes, we just need to spend a little more in order to experience all the goodness that technology has to offer. The VRKiX Virtual Reality 3D Glasses is a little pricey compared to its peers but promises a lot more than others. At $49.99, it may seem like an expensive gadget but with 360 degree viewing made possible on your smartphones, you couldn’t be asking for more. Most importantly, the thick soft face cushion ensures that you can use the device for hours. IT can also be cleaned easily, making it an ergonomic and well-designed headset. The device can also be used with smaller cellphones, as it allows screen sizes between 3 inches and 6 inches. The VRKiX Virtual Reality 3D Glasses is compatible with Android and iOS devices, and also with Google Cardboard app.

WEAREVR ET1 VR Headsets

If you are looking for premium technology and advanced materials, the WEAREVR ET1 headset is a great choice. The device comes with a 42 mm Japan technology lens and soft elastic head-straps that offer great immersive experience and comfortable wearing. This product has been specifically designed to reduce neck strain and the discomfort prolonged periods of watching at a screen in an angle causes. The straps come with the unique “pillow back” support that ensures that you do not feel tired at the end of your VR viewing experience. The device is compatible with both Android and iOS devices between 3 and 6 inches. At $34.99, the WEAREVR ET1 VR Headsets are moderately priced.

Habor 3D VR Headsets

If you are tired of sweat trickling down your face and making your headset’s strap wet and uncomfortable, the guys at Habor have heard you. The Habor 3D VR headsets come with a non-sweat-absorbent, elastic and hygienic leather which ensures that you can watch your movie or play games without feeling uncomfortable. It is also designed ergonomically to ensure maximum comfort and least pressure on the eyes. Myopic people can use these headsets too, while the blue coating film protects everybody’s eyes from the harsh blue lights that come from smartphone screens. In other words, Habor 3D VR is the perfect choice if you value hygiene, comfort and optical health. The headset is compatible with screen sizes between 4 and 6 inches and costs $47.99.

Google Cardboard v2.0 Virtual Reality Headset

If you are familiar with VR headsets, you will probably already know that Google’s cardboard headsets are affordable and work pretty well. They are not as comfortable as many others in this list but they still do their job quite well. Moreover, there is a lot of content available for these devices at Google Play. The Google Cardboard v2.0 Virtual Reality Headset costs $14.99 and is compatible with iPhones up to 6 inches and most Android devices. It is made from a high quality cardboard that will not wear out easily. Still, if you are looking for comfort, this may not be the headset of choice for you.

J-DEAL Large FOV 3D Headsets

Another headset with a 42 mm diameter lens is the J-DEAL Large FOV 3D Headset, which costs $24.99, after a discount of almost 58%. It simulates a 1000 inches big screen from a distance of 3 meters, making watching 3D-enabled movies a truly immersive experience. The headsets are also designed for myopic people and what’s more, they don’t even have to wear their own glasses. The headsets come with an in-built feature which makes it easy for people with myopia under 600 degrees to watch movies and play games without wearing glasses. The device can also be used in various positions. If you decide to watch the movie lying in the bed or while standing in the kitchen waiting for the broth to boil, you can go ahead and do that. This environmentally friendly device is compatible with all Android and iOS devices with screen sizes between 4.7 and 6 inches.

Innoo Tech VR Goggles

If you are looking for a panoramic immersive experience, look no further than the Innoo Tech VR Glasses, which cost $28.99. The headsets are widely compatible with devices that have screen sizes ranging between 3.5 inches and 6 inches. If you are still holding on to an iPhone 4S, you can safely use this headset with your older iPhones. The headset is also compatible with Android, making it a truly versatile device. The highlight of this headset is that it comes with a faceplate that ensures maximum heat dissipation so that it operates under temperatures almost 8 degrees cooler than other headsets. This means, you can watch or play for prolonged periods without worrying about your headsets becoming hot and uncomfortable.

Merge VR Headsets

There is something icky about sharing headsets with family and friends. More than being icky, it can pose a risk of transmitting infections and germs. If you are worried about hygiene and will be sharing your headset with others, you might want to try the Merge VR Headsets. This iOS and Android-compatible headset is easy to clean and very hygienic, as it has been designed with sanitary conditions in mind. These headsets are also easy to wear and very comfortable, reducing or at least, minimizing the eyestrain that you might experience. The headset comes with innovative dual touch inputs compatible with VR apps, which negates the need for an actual controller. At $79, the Merge VR Headset is a tad too expensive for most people.

Uvistar 3D Glasses

While there are many headsets out there with each claiming to be better than the other, it becomes a little difficult to choose the right one, especially when our budget is not very high. The Uvistar 3D Glasses cost just $28.99 and are great for home use. If you are planning to buy your child or nephew his first VR headsets, this might just be the right choice. It can be used in any position at any location, making it perfect for children who tend to sit, stand and lie down all through the movie or while playing games. The Uvistar 3D Glasses are compatible with iOS and Android devices between 4.7 and 6 inches, which means, your older iPhones may not be compatible with this device.

Shengsite VR BOX Headset

With the holiday season arriving in a few months, you might as well start thinking about all the gifts you might have to buy for your extended family and friends. The Shengsite VR BOX is a great choice for those who love 3D and virtual reality. It simulates movie viewing experience at screens similar to that of an IMAX 3D, which also translates to a 1000 inches screen from a distance of 3 meters. Whether you want to watch your favorite football star kick a ball or you want to watch a movie with its 3D effects, the Shengsite VR BOX is the right choice. The device is compatible with screen sizes between 4.7 and 6 inches, and you can use it with both iOS and Android smartphones. At $21.99, it is also quite affordable, if you are buying several pieces for your friends and family.

JEQEYA VR Headset

If you are looking for a head-mounted 3D home theater experience, look no further than the JEQEYA. It comes with a manual control mode that helps you watch videos and play games easily. It also has an audio quality similar to that of hi-fi headphones and is very comfortable to wear for prolonged periods of time. Moreover, the design has been humanized to suit the needs of the wearers, including those who have myopia. At $48.80, it is a great headset that can be used easily without worrying about the nitty-gritty like many other devices of its kind.

IGEO VR Glasses

If you are looking for an affordable VR headset, the IGEO headset seems to be the right choice. With its revolutionary technology, you can convert your cellphone into a virtual reality viewer. It provides the same quality of viewing experience as an IMAX does. With more than 300 VR apps available on Google Play Store and iTunes Store, you can rest easy that you will have an endless supply of entertainment for a very low price. The IGEO costs just $18.99 and even features an ergonomic head belt design. If you want to wear your myopia glasses, you can do so. All you need to do is, wear the glasses before you wear the headset.

Atongm 3D VR Glasses

If you were looking for a mouse game pad that could simulate more realistic gaming, you will probably like the Atongm 3D VR Headset, which comes with an incredible mouse game pad mode that will impress most hardcore gamers. Most importantly, the device has been designed with myopic people in mind, which ensures that they can watch and immerse in virtual reality without feeling constrained by having to wear regular glasses under the headsets. The Atongm 3D VR costs $27.89 and is compatible with most cellphones with green sizes between 3.5 and 6 inches.

Uber-advanced HTC Vive

If you want the best if the lot, you can go ahead and choose the HTC Vive, which of course is the most expensive on this list. It costs a whopping $830 including shipping and is really for serious VR enthusiasts. This is no toy and provides a realistic experience that is hyper-real, if you would like to call it that. You get the headset, two base stations and two wireless controllers when you purchase the set. You will also get the Tilt Brush, Job Simulator and other goodies for free. With room scale experiences and precision taking, gaming will never be like before. The front facing camera brings real world awareness that is out of this world. It is simply impossible to describe all the features that this amazing headset has, which understandably is the best in the VR world. If you can afford its high price tag, this is the best you can buy.

Choose the one best suited for your needs

The VR headset world is very diverse and versatile. There are headsets for as little as $15 and you can find something amazing like the HTC Vive for $830. It really depends on how much money you can bear to spend and how hyper-real you want to get. There is something for everyone in the list above, and you can find a great VR headset depending on your needs and budget. If you’ve already purchased one of these headsets or do plan to buy one, share with us your experience in the comments section below.