Samsung Gear VR (for Note 8) hands-on
When you grow a few inches and can't fit into your usual stuff, then it's time for a brand new wardrobe. That's exactly where the just announced Samsung Galaxy Note 8 finds itself, as it's longer length and slightly wider waistline doesn't allow it to fit the most recent version of the Samsung Gear VR – the "new" one released alongside the Galaxy S8 and S8+ from earlier in the year. Knowing that, it means that we're being introduced to yet another, newer version of the Samsung Gear VR.
Visually, it doesn't deviate from the same design language as before with its plastic body, padded cushioning, and fit. In fact, you'd be hard pressed to even realize that this is an entirely new version, but it is! Due to the larger overall size of the Note 8, the Gear VR has been modified to accommodate the new phone because the previous version doesn't allow it. Now that the compartment area where the Note 8 rests in is larger, it'll not only fit the new phone, but the others as well in the line, like the Galaxy S8 and S8+.
Other minor changes we're told is the slightly different hue with the paint job, which again is probably something most people wouldn't realize is new. And finally, the overall size of the headset is a smidgen smaller than the previous version. Again, both changes are hardly noticeable, but those are pretty much the new changes with the VR headset.
In our short time checking it out, the mobile VR experience follows in the same manner as before – including the use of the motion controller in certain titles. Looking through the lenses in the headset, there's nothing out of the ordinary with its field of view. It's neither wider or narrower from what we've seen with the previous version.
Owners of the previous version will have to buy this new one if they intend on getting the Note 8 and experiencing mobile VR, which will incur an additional cost because it's an entirely new headset. Pricing here in the US for the new Samsung Gear VR with Controller will be $129.99 when it officially goes on sale starting on September 15th. However, that pricing might be different overseas in other markets. Even though the Note 8 is more than adequate in providing a convincing mobile VR experience, it's just a bummer that you can't use the previous version of the Gear VR with it.
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