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[Kyne]

The Samsung Gear VR is a Virtual Reality Headset produced and launched in a partnership between Samsung and Oculus. The Gear VR utilizes the Galaxy Note 5 or Galaxy S6/Edge as a display, CPU, and GPU. The tracking and touch input are handled by dedicated hardware inside the headset, with the hardware connecting directly to the device via the microUSB port. Software designed for the Gear VR bypasses the standard sandboxing and buffering of the Android OS via a custom kernel, allowing the content to run at a consistent 60fps and with sub 20ms latency at all times.​

Developer: Samsung & Oculus

Price: $99

Release Date (US): 11.20.15
Release Date (International): TBA

Weight: 318g / 0.7lbs (without phone)

Compatible Devices:

• Samsung Galaxy S6
• Samsung Galaxy S6 edge
• Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+
• Samsung Galaxy Note5
• Samsung Galaxy S7
• Samsung Galaxy S7 edge

Where to Purchase:

• Best Buy
• Amazon
• Samsung
• AT&T
• T-Mobile

Reviews:

• IGN
• WIRED
• The Verge
• USA Today
• VentureBeat
• The Wall Street Journal
• TechCrunch
• Variety
• re/code
• Gizmodo
• Phys.Org
• Polygon

Key Specs:

Compatible Controllers:

Samsung El-GP20 Gamepad

Moga Pro

SteelSeries (for Android)

Steel Series Stratus XL

Note: There are other bluetooth controllers that might work for this device. These are the ones cited by Samsung's support page. Use others at your own risk.

Notable Games:

Lands End

Eve - Gunjack

Smash Hit

Dead Secret

Mortal Blitz

Anshar Wars

Bandit Six Salvo

Bazaar

Faceted Flight

Ocean Rift

Atop the Wizards Tower

Viral

Oculus Arcade

Games Purchasable inside Oculus Arcade:

Bandai Namco

• Pacman (1980)
• Galaga (1981)

Midway

• APB (1987)
• Defender (1981)
• Joust (1982)
• Gauntlet (1985)
• Gauntlet II (1986)
• Rampage (1986)
• Root Beer Tapper (1983)
• Spy Hunter (1983)

Sega

• Altered Beast (1988)
• Golden Axe (1989)
• Phantasy Star II (1989)
• Shinobi III (1993)
• Sonic the Hedgehog (1991)
• Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (1992)
• Sonic Spinball (1993)
• Streets of Rage (1991)
• Streets of Rage 2 (1992)
• Virtua Fighter 2 (1994)
• Ecco the Dolphin (1992)

Notable Applications:

MilkVR

Jurassic World Experience

theBluVR

Oculus 360 Tours

Colosse

Circle of Life - The Lion King

F.A.Q:

What is the main difference between the Innovator Edition and the Consumer Edition?

The new Gear VR is 19% lighter than the previous Innovator Edition and features improved ergonomics plus a completely redesigned touchpad for easier navigation.

Are all apps going to be cross compatible with the Innovator Edition and the Consumer Edition?

Sort of. If you were using an S6 as the base phone for the Innovator Edition you will probably be fine. The Note4 is another story.

What is the best gaming controller for the Gear VR?

Personally I suggest the Moga Pro.

Can I use wired headphones? What about wireless Bluetooth?

Yes, there is a side port that will protrude so that you can use wired headphones and yes, just like any normal smart device you can sync via wireless Bluetooth technology.

Does the new Gear VR support the Samsung Galaxy S6 Active?

No.

Is there VR Porn available for my Samsung Gear VR?

Yes.

Where can I find the VR Porn available for my Samsung Gear VR?

Spoiler

 

[valkillmore]

Great OT but I think you've got a pic of PSVR 'S The Deep in there instead of Ocean Rift. Serve me shark fin soup if I'm wrong.

Edit: OP fixed it

 

[Kyne]

Great OT but I think you've got a pic of PSVR 'S The Deep in there instead of Ocean Rift. Serve me shark fin soup if I'm wrong.

https://twitter.com/OceanRiftVR/status/667295501658664960

They released it for the GearVR earlier today.

I'll get the spices.

 

[ninjaboyjohn]

https://twitter.com/OceanRiftVR/status/667295501658664960

They released it for the GearVR earlier today.

I'll get the spices.

Yeah, but the *picture* is still wrong.

Other than that, great OT! Can't wait to hear more from new owners.

Also considering upgrading my iphone 5 to one of these Samsung phones - definitely interested in gaffer's takes on them and how they work with the new GearVR.

 

[wanderingprostheyltite]

IN

Great OT, expecting mine tomorrow. Ordered the moga pro with original expected delivery of tomorrow but seems like Amazon's fulfillment centers are fubar right now with the holidays, hasn't even shipped.

If you have a ps4 controller I think you can get away with limited support and functionality, saw this on reddit earlier, some of you may want to snag it if you don't have a dedicated android one in time for launch:

It doesn't come with a controller. You can use a PS3 controller if your phone is rooted. If your phone isn't rooted, you can use a PS4 controller. If the PS4 controller has lag, you have to download a free app called "Bluetooth Auto Connect": http://forums.androidcentral.com/sa...id-samsung-galaxy-there-anyway-i-can-fix.html

 

[Ferrio]

 

[Ragnarok]

Hmmm I have a galaxy s6. Might have to get into this! Never tried VR before

 

[Canis lupus]

https://twitter.com/OceanRiftVR/status/667295501658664960

They released it for the GearVR earlier today.

I'll get the spices.

He is saying you are using a pic from the wrong game.

Pic is from The Deep demo, not Ocean Rift.

 

[LonelyGreyWolf]

I would totally have bought this if I had a compatible device.

Those controllers look shitty though. At least the second one look like it could fit decently nicely in the hands.

 

[Kyne]

Yeah, but the *picture* is still wrong.

Other than that, great OT! Can't wait to hear more from new owners.

Also considering upgrading my iphone 5 to one of these Samsung phones - definitely interested in gaffer's takes on them and how they work with the new GearVR.

He is saying you are using a pic from the wrong game.

Pic is from The Deep demo, not Ocean Rift.

right.. fixed!

.. to a much less cool picture. :c

 

[jaypah]

I've never heard of any of the apps not being compatible with the innovator edition (I own most of the apps in the OP already). I know that Note 4 support may get spotty (some apps released today don't show up for Note 4) but as far as I know the S6 & innovator edition should work with any apps the S6 and Consumer Version works with.

 

[Kyne]

I've never heard of any of the apps not being compatible with the innovator edition (I own most of the apps in the OP already). I know that Note 4 support may get spotty (some apps released today don't show up for Note 4) but as far as I know the S6 & innovator edition should work with any apps the S6 and Consumer Version works with.

There have been a lot of reports coming in that a lot of apps from here on out won't support the Innovator Edition for the Note 4. It's possible that it might carry down to the S6 version so I don't want to give people false hope.

 

[~Kinggi~]

We must come together and sanction the official VR Porn thread. Do it for humanity pls

 

[jaypah]

There have been a lot of reports coming in that a lot of apps from here on out won't support the Innovator Edition for the Note 4. It's possible that it might carry down to the S6 version so I don't want to give people false hope.

That would be super weird since outside of being lighter there isn't anything in there tech-wise that's different. Note 4 in general is being phased out, the S6 innovator edition should work as long as the S6 consumer version is working. If I have to shell out another $100 it's no big deal but I honestly don't think I'll ever have to.

 

[Nafai1123]

Pre-ordered on Amazon...no ship date

Quick question. Does the DS4 work on un-rooted Android?

 

[johnvr]

That would be super weird since outside of being lighter there isn't anything in there tech-wise that's different. Note 4 in general is being phased out, the S6 innovator edition should work as long as the S6 consumer version is working. If I have to shell out another $100 it's no big deal but I honestly don't think I'll ever have to.

From my understanding, its really only the Note 4 Innovator edition getting the shaft, most likely due to performance issues due to an opengl regression in 5.1 on Snapdragon CPU based Note 4s.

Your s6 innovator edition should be able to do everything the consumer one does.

 

[n0razi]

No tracking though right? I feel it would be noticeable without it

 

[LemonGremlin]

right.. fixed!

.. to a much less cool picture. :c

Almost! I'm the dev of Ocean Rift ... that photo's from 2014 I think. Here's some newer ones! Cheers

 

[Narroo]

Wait, so it's literally a way to strap your smart phone to your face?

 

[LemonGremlin]

I've never heard of any of the apps not being compatible with the innovator edition (I own most of the apps in the OP already). I know that Note 4 support may get spotty (some apps released today don't show up for Note 4) but as far as I know the S6 & innovator edition should work with any apps the S6 and Consumer Version works with.

Yes the important thing is the phone - if it runs off an S6 it will be fine. Note 4 support will get patchy as we go forward.

 

[wanderingprostheyltite]

Pre-ordered on Amazon...no ship date

Quick question. Does the DS4 work on un-rooted Android?

I answered this above but sorta from what I've seen others say on reddit. Apparently you'll want to download an app called Bluetooth Auto Connect as input lag is a problem. Probably better to get one of the dedicated controllers like the Moga Pro, but I'll be trying to use my ds4 tomorrow and will report back with how it works in various gear apps that support controllers.

No tracking though right? I feel it would be noticeable without it

A company called OTOY just recently demoed their very early tracking solution for Gear using Valve's Lighthouse controllers (its literally strapped to the top of the Gear). It's a ways off but from reports of people that demoed it they say it works really well, so there's hope down the road for Gear getting some third party tracking solutions.

 

[Wolfgunblood Garopa]

What the fuck, I can play Phantasy Star II in VR?

 

[Dreamwriter]

Wait, so it's literally a way to strap your smart phone to your face?

Basically, though it also has extra sensors built into it, a touchpad, and high quality lenses that bend the light from your phone's screen around your eyes.

 

[jaypah]

From my understanding, its really only the Note 4 Innovator edition getting the shaft, most likely due to performance issues due to an opengl regression in 5.1 on Snapdragon CPU based Note 4s.

Your s6 innovator edition should be able to do everything the consumer one does.

This is what I figured from reading the Gear VR Reddit the past few months. I'm on my phone and didn't feel like finding the link so thanks for the info.

Yes the important thing is the phone - if it runs off an S6 it will be fine. Note 4 support will get patchy as we go forward.

That's what I thought but I didn't want to put false info out there. Obviously you'd know better than my hunch so thanks for posting!

 

[Enk]

Times like these I wish I had a Samsung phone, but my DK2 should still tide me over until the big 2016 releases. All those games and experiences in the OP look delicious! Really am anxious to try Land's End.

Wait, so it's literally a way to strap your smart phone to your face?

Yes, that's exactly what it is. Doesn't it boggle your mind as to why so many people are foaming out their eyeholes to pay a 100+ smackers for a fancy piece of plastic that will basically strap your phone to you face? I guess it will just free up their hands to do other things.

 

[wanderingprostheyltite]

So does oculus social allow you to use the Samsung ear buds with the mic for talking to others? Can't wait to see how social apps evolve over time. Would be cool if a stripped down Janus vr or altspace would come to it eventually.

 

[Fasty]

Does anyone know if it's possible to get the Gear VR apps working on a non Samsung phone with Google Cardboard? Would be cool to just test them out even if it's not optimal

 

[googleplex]

It seriously pisses me off that the Gear VR for my Note 4 is twice as much for an older product.

 

[Dreamwriter]

Does anyone know if it's possible to get the Gear VR apps working on a non Samsung phone with Google Cardboard? Would be cool to just test them out even if it's not optimal

As I understand it, the Gear VR sdk (and thus the apps written for it) is written at a lower level than all other Android apps to make sure they have minimal latency, they only run on specific Samsung phones for that reason. They are the closest things to actual native apps you'll find on an Android phone.

 

[gunslikewhoa]

Wait, so it's literally a way to strap your smart phone to your face?

It sure is nice being outside of that cave, huh?

 

[Makoto]

Netflix would be on top if they had a theater option a la Oculus Cinema.

 

[Dreamwriter]

Netflix would be on top if they had a theater option a la Oculus Cinema.

It has a posh livingroom in the mountains with a giant TV

 

[wanderingprostheyltite]

It seriously pisses me off that the Gear VR for my Note 4 is twice as much for an older product.

I recall seeing they reduced the price for it shortly after the consumer one was announced, just googled and saw they only did that for the s6 version. Kinda douchey of Samsung not to reduce the Note 4 one, especially seeing as support going forwards for apps is going to be shaky specifically for that model.

 

[Fasty]

As I understand it, the Gear VR sdk (and thus the apps written for it) is written at a lower level than all other Android apps to make sure they have minimal latency, they only run on specific Samsung phones for that reason. They are the closest things to actual native apps you'll find on an Android phone.

Oh I see, thanks for the insight!

 

[Azure Dream]

"Thanks Innovators. Now fuck off!" (Kidding.)

Supposedly the Note 4 performance problems should go away when Android M finally hits Note 4s. February 2016. Unfortunately, then carriers get to spend forever adding in their normal crap and testing that (T-Mobile being the slowest of the slow, because of Wi-Fi Calling among other features).

I love my Note 4 Gear VR, and people are usually impressed by it. It's a very slickly-designed product with smart choices, and generally it works pretty well. I really hope support continues, because that's going to leave me in a weird position otherwise.

 

[Of All Trades]

I have a fire TV controller, how do I make it work with my Gear VR? Treat me like I have a learning disability because google didn't give me an immediate answer.

Is there a way to install the various apps in advance of getting the Gear VR? It shows up tomorrow but I'd like to have it ready in advance if possible.

 

[wanderingprostheyltite]

I have a fire TV controller, how do I make it work with my Gear VR? Treat me like I have a learning disability because google didn't give me an immediate answer.

Is there a way to install the various apps in advance of getting the Gear VR? It shows up tomorrow but I'd like to have it ready in advance if possible.

From reddit (works on newer phones too):

Quick and easy process.

1. Go to Playstore and download "Quick Shortcut Maker" https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sika524.android.quickshortcut

2. After the app installs, have it look for "VRSetupWizardStub" this is the command the Note 4 receives the first time you plug the device into Gear VR

3. Tap the Try button

As long as you have a compatible Note 4 model, the Oculus app should launch. Now you can download VR apps and games to your device ahead of time, your Gear VR experience will be fully loaded before UPS drops it off at your door.

 

[Kyne]

Almost! I'm the dev of Ocean Rift ... that photo's from 2014 I think. Here's some newer ones! Cheers

Thanks! I can't wait to check it out first hand tomorrow.

 

[VanCityGamer]

Any idea when this will ship from Amazon??

 

[Bsigg12]

Temple Run VR just made me kinda light headed.

Downloading Gunjack and Lands End right now.

 

[VanCityGamer]

I'm really excited to read impressions from people who have never tried VR before. I've yet to experience any VR and think I have pretty reasonable expectations. Should be a really neat toy that blows people away when you show it off to them. Some major drawbacks being lack of games, screen door effect, and no tracking of leaning/tilting your head.

 

[Azure Dream]

Temple Run VR just made me kinda light headed.

Downloading Gunjack and Lands End right now.

Temple Run VR is not a great VR title, John Carmack (or possibly one of the other Oculus people) has gone onto stage and said as much.

 

[InsaneTiger]

I didn't know Lands' End clothing company made a videogame, much less a VR title. Cool, virtual clothes shopping.

 

[Bsigg12]

Temple Run VR is not a great VR title, John Carmack (or possibly one of the other Oculus people) has gone onto stage and said as much.

Yea, I figured since it was free it would something to check out. If you get motion sick easy, don't play it.

 

[Zabka]

Received mine from Best Buy earlier today. I'm simultaneously impressed and disappointed. Netflix and Oculus Cinema look way better than I expected and the focus adjustment makes the image pretty damn clear in spite of my terrible vision, but with anything using 3d rendering the phone (an S6) can overheat extremely quickly.

I didn't get too deep into it yet since I left my android controller at work. The longest I spent was watching the last 45 minutes of Starship Troopers on Netflix. The sample WWE clips were surprisingly great too with some of the sharpest 360 video on the store.

 

[jaypah]

People getting these tomorrow are in for a treat. The app store is waaaaay better than it was when I first got the innovator edition. Lots of cool services, demos and games to try. It's pretty much where you would expect a store to be for a product launch as opposed to just a random scattering of apps. I hope a lot of GAFfers are jumping in so we can get some good discussions and reccomendations going. I'm feeling hyped like I haven't been using the Gear VR for 6 months lol

 

[OneUh8]

I might have to get this, if for a anything to be able to try out VR. For that price, why not? Might as well dip my toes in before psvr hits the streets.

 

[jaypah]

I might have to get this, if for a anything to be able to try out VR. For that price, why not? Might as well dip my toes in before psvr hits the streets.

I have a DK2 and a decent PC and use my GearVR as much if not more than my DK2. If you already have a compatible phone and are even mildly interested in VR it is absolutely worth the $99 IMO.

 

[CronoShot]

Ordered one from Samsung. It will be my first VR experience (using the Note 5).

Can't wait!

 

[Rodney McKay]

Disappointing that the Note 4 version of this seems to be starting to get less support.

I really wanted to try out Land's End, but it's not supported by that model of Gear VR yet.

Not totally unexpected since the Note 4 version is the developer/early adopter version, but still a bit of a bummer.