Virtual Reality Headset
Samsung Electronics’ virtual reality (VR) headset, the Gear VR, has received its telecommunication equipment certification in Korea. The company is expected to unveil the product one day before the opening of IFA 2014 on September 4.
According to the National Radio Research Agency, Samsung Electronics registered the Gear VR (model name: SM-R320) at the agency on August 22. Jointly developed by Samsung Electronics and Oculus, the headset uses special lenses and sensors for a VR experience. It is expected to be similar in design and function to Sony’s Morpheus, which is a goggle-type device connected to the PlayStation 4. As is the case with the Oculus Rift, it provides 3D images while recognizing the facial movement of the user for use in output devices like a mouse and keyboard.
The VR headset market is still in an early stage, but its growth potential is huge. Facebook took over Oculus in March, signaling the release of a variety of innovative equipment. Many people anticipate that the Gear VR will overcome the limitations of existing products with its dedicated operating system (OS), applications, compatibility with mobile devices, and advanced data communications functions.
Also, the Gear VR is likely to come with Tizen OS, in that the OS has been applied to most of the Gear-titled products of Samsung Electronics. This means that it can provide telecommunications functions on its own. The manufacturer used the phrase “wireless headset for a mobile phone” during its trademark application with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.