The Windows VR headset looks impressive on paper.
Samsung, in partnership with Microsoft, today announced the Samsung HMD Odyssey—a Windows VR headset expected to have some impressive specs.
According to Samsung, the Odyssey VR headset rocks dual 3.5-inch OLED displays and a 110-degree field of view. With an OLED screen at 1440 x 1600 per eye, this is slightly higher than other Windows VR headsets at 1440 x 1440. In comparison to the Rift and Vive, this is a big jump from their 1080 x 1200 LCD displays. OLED screens are known for delivering vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and providing crisper images.
The Samsung Odyssey is unlike typical headsets, you don’t need to install any extra motions sensors. Just connect your PC and the inside-out position tracking lets you roam around unrestricted in VR. Other specs on the announced Samsung Odyssey headset include integrated AKG headphones and an array mics for voice commands, as well as two motion controllers.
The Samsung HMD Odyssey will be available later this year in the US, China, Korea, Brazil and Hong Kong, with pre-orders beginning in the US only on October 3rd.
“The Samsung HMD Odyssey is a high performing headset designed to provide the most immersive Windows Mixed Reality experience. ” said YG Choi, Senior Vice President of PC Business Team, Samsung Electronics. “With the widest field of view, built-in spatial sound and easy setup, the Samsung HMD Odyssey transports consumers to incredible virtual reality experiences.” Microsoft refers to their VR headsets as “mixed reality” headsets.
There’s still a lot we don’t know about the headset aside from what’s been shared. We’re also cautiously optimistic about Microsoft’s Windows “Mixed Reality” platform. But for the price of $499, as much as you’d pay for a complete Oculus Rift, we’re happy to see more competition within the premium VR hardware market.
