2016 is the year for the explosive development of virtual reality so it was really only a matter of time before Xiaomi jumped on board too. Here’s the Xiaomi VR headset.
No, it’s not a standalone VR headset as it still requires your smartphone, but Xiaomi has gone with a few interesting design choices with their VR headset. First up, it’s made from a combination of EVA (foam) and Lycra which is supposedly designed to make it as comfortable as possible for extended usage.
We’re not sure how well this construction will stand the test of time, though, as EVA isn’t exactly the strongest material. The headset measures 201x107x91mm and weighs in at 208.7g. So it’s a lot lighter than Samsung’s new Gear VR which weighs in at about 345g with the front cover on.
In the Xiaomi VR headset, your smartphone is held in place by what looks like a pretty heavy duty two-way zipper instead of your usual clip-on affair like you’d find on Samsung’s Gear VR. Inside, there are anti-slip pads that will keep your smartphone from moving around. There are also two cutouts on the front of the lid so you can make minor adjustments to make sure your smartphone is in exactly the right spot. For controls, there’s a metal threaded button that’s designed to be durable and long-lasting.
Xiaomi’s headset will take phones with screen sizes of 4.7 inches to 5.7 inches and will come with a standalone app that lets you view 360-degree content and games designed for the headset.
If black isn’t up your alley, Xiaomi says that there will be a bunch of other customised headsets featuring all kinds of funky designs and colours.
Right now, the Xiaomi VR headset is open for beta registrations but there is no information on the pricing yet. Estimates put it below USD10 (around RM40.5). For more information, head on over to the headset’s official website.
What do you guys think of Xiaomi’s headset? Would it be something you’d buy?
