First look at the updated Samsung Gear VR

A somewhat unexpected announcement alongside the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge, Samsung introduced new and updated version of Gear VR at MWC 2015. While on the floor at MWC we had the opportunity to try out the latest version of the Gear VR. With all that said, let’s jump in and take a brief first look at the device.

This VR unit introduced in conjuction with Oculus is another revision in refining the idea that originally released alongside the Galaxy Note 4. The headset is now 15% smaller, all the while being lighter and more comfortable. Given that the experience is untethered, this comes as good news.

There is now a USB on the bottom that acts as a pass through so you can keep the phone going while using the unit. There’s also a silent fan that aims to keep the unit from overheating, and to stop any fogging that may occur in the lens. We have a few minor cosmetic changes too. The touchpad has now been recesssed so it is easy to locate, and the back button is now more tactile than before.

Overall the experience is fantastic for what it is, providing an untethered experience and an inclination of what VR could bring and not just for gaming. The Gear VR presents an ideaology that is only a compliment to the bigger and more powerful Oculus Rift.

However, for owners of the first generation model, there’s really no reason to feel left out as the experience is largely the same, just more refined. It is also important to note that both owners of the original hardware and future owners of the newer model will soon have a number of new paid (and some free) apps and games, thanks to a joint effort launched by Samsung and Oculus.

Once the Oculus store goes live, you’ll find a few VR optimized games in the $2.99 to $4.99 range, though Oculus says that they have been plans to keep pushing out more apps and games in the months to come. What do you think of the Gear VR experience? Do you think mobile VR is the future, or more of a gimmick than anything? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.