Samsung Gear VR virtual reality headset leaks online, to launch at IFA 2014
Alexandra BurlacuSamsung's much-rumored virtual reality (VR) headset has just leaked online in an intriguing image, revealing what the device allegedly looks like.
Rumors that Samsung was busy working on its own VR headset that would challenge the Oculus Rift first surfaced back in May, but no solid evidence was available to support the claim. The purported headset has now popped up in a leaked image, giving the world a first look at the upcoming device.
Samsung will reportedly launch the gadget as the Gear VR, slapping the same moniker it uses for its other wearable devices. The leaked image shows the device from the side and even offers some neat graphic overlays that offer brief descriptions on the device's functionality.
SamMobile was the first to share this image, and claims that Samsung will launch its Gear VR headset at the IFA 2014 consumer electronics show, which takes place this September in Berlin. The company is also expected to unveil a top-notch, metal-clad Galaxy F smartphone at the show, alongside the next-generation Galaxy Note 4, according to rumors.
As for the virtual reality headgear, the leaked photo shows a device with red and black exterior, which comes with a touch pad on the side of the lens housing. As the brief description details, the headset also has a button that will reportedly allow users to activate a "see-through" mode.
SamMobile further notes that the Gear VR will feature a USB 3.0 dock, although it doesn't appear in the image. This dock would allow users to connect the headset to a Galaxy mobile device so the Gear VR could use the device's accelerometer for head tracking. This way, Samsung wouldn't have to pack sensors in the headset itself to allow users to achieve a VR effect.
Moreover, the publication further reveals that the Gear VR will boast a range of apps, as well as an SDK for developers as soon as it launches. Lastly, SamMobile claims that the hardware will come from Samsung, but the software will come from the Oculus Rift team.
If Samsung does indeed plan to unveil this device at the IFA 2014 trade show, the timing would be perfect for the mid-September Oculus Connect conference, which adds more credibility to the claim.
Nevertheless, while this photo looks intriguing, it all remains in the rumor state. Until some official confirmation from Samsung, take all leaks and reports with a hefty grain of salt. We'll let you know as soon as we hear more about this purported Gear VR gadget, so stay tuned.
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