Samsung had unveiled its flagship smartphones for 2016 – the Galaxy S7 and the Galaxy S7 edge – last month. Shortly after the unveiling, the company started sending out review units to press and media around the world. Instead of sending just the Galaxy S7, Samsung Poland sent out complete Galaxy S7 ‘test boxes’ to reviewers. So, what do these test boxes contain? Let’s have a look!
The Galaxy S7 test box is a premium leather-wrapped briefcase with a big Samsung logo. It contains four devices: a Galaxy S7, a Gear S2 classic, a Gear VR, and Level On Wireless headphones. All these devices are one of the best in their categories, and it would be a dream come true for any Samsung enthusiasts to own this test box. Would you be interested in buying such a premium package if Samsung decides to sell them to general consumers?
Samsung Electronics America, official mobile sponsor of the Sundance Film Festival, is sparking VR storytelling at the Samsung Studio, the go-to venue for filmmakers, content developers, industry influencers and more to connect, learn and share experiences, all through the lens of the latest Samsung products and services, including the new Samsung Gear VR, powered by Oculus.
“One of the biggest trends and themes for 2016 is virtual reality. At Samsung, we are making VR more accessible by partnering with the best in the industry to deliver a growing library of engaging, rich content for our Gear VR which is all made possible by our latest Galaxy devices,” said Marc Mathieu, chief marketing officer at Samsung Electronics America. “We are excited to engage with the creative community at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival to collaborate and amplify viewpoints, content and new technological advancements as we continue to cultivate development in the VR community.”
There are many opportunities for Festivalgoes to meet and interact at the Samsung Studio. Here is a sampling of what’s in store.
Unique programming at Samsung Studio
The team from Funny Or Die joins Samsung to debut the world premiere of the first-ever virtual reality comedy short, “Interrogation” featuring comedians Paul Scheer and Rob Huebel. Discussions will highlight how Gear VR is empowering comedic storytelling in new, immersive ways.
Samsung Studio will also treat Festivalgoers to interactive filmmaker panels with Deadline, BMI, Broadcast Music, Inc. and Funny Or Die, among other programming to be announced.
GONE Returns from Holiday Hiatus
At the 2016 Sundance Film Festival, Samsung, in collaboration with Skybound Entertainment and Wevr, will unveil the latest cluster of episodes from Samsung’s original thriller “GONE.” During December 2015, “GONE Episode #1: Pilgrim” quickly rose to be the number one most viewed piece of content on the service, with viewers quickly gravitating towards the “exploratory video” technology unique to the series.
Gear Indie Challenge Results
In an effort to nurture emerging and independent VR filmmakers, Samsung recently conducted the Gear Indie “There in 60 Seconds” contest, challenging filmmakers to transport viewers to a place that is special and unique in 60 seconds or less. At the 2016 Sundance Film Festival, details on the winning entries will be unveiled, with the winning content available to enjoy on Samsung Gear VR.
New Frontier Mobile VR Content Coming to Samsung Gear VR
Gear VR will be the way to watch the New Frontier Program’s Mobile VR content stemming from the 2016 Sundance Film Festival. Attendees will be able to experience the innovative works of ground-breaking artists who work in new media technology and get a glimpse of how the VR medium is used to immerse the viewer and take storytelling to a new dimension.
Living the Galaxy Life to the Fullest at Samsung Studio
At the Samsung Studio, Galaxy owners can enjoy premium services with the Gear S2 Concierge, offering priority restaurant reservations and complimentary Uber rides – all ordered from Samsung’s newest smartwatch, the Gear S2. Festivalgoers will also be able to use Samsung Pay – the official mobile payment of the 2016 Sundance Film Festival – at the Studio’s café, which will feature menu items from Salt Lake City’s own, “The Rose Establishment.”
More Information about Samsung at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival
Visitors to the Samsung Studio will have access to the Sundance Film Festival Selfie, and will experience the brand’s full range of product innovations including the Gear VR, Galaxy View, Galaxy S6 edge+, Galaxy Note5, Galaxy Tab S2, Gear S2, SUHD TVs and home appliances. The Samsung Studio will be located at 638 Park Avenue and will be open from January 22 – January 26, 2016.
For additional information and the full list of panel details, please visit the 2016 Sundance Film Festival schedule at sundance.org/festival.
After Samsung unveiled the Gear S2 and the Gear VR wearable devices last year, they were made available in the European markets as well as in the US. We were doubtful about the availability of these devices in India, especially the Gear S2 since the original Gear S didn’t sell well in the country.
It looks like Samsung is all geared up to launch these wearables in India this month. According to PhoneRadar, Samsung will launch the Tizen-powered Gear S2 smartwatch in India along with the Gear VR later this month, and we can confirm that the company has been developing Gear S2 firmware for the Indian market, so it is possible that the report might be true.
Samsung recently announced its plans to launch the dual-SIM variant of the Galaxy Note 5 in the country after looking at increasing demand for mid-range smartphones with two SIM card slots. The company might also launch the Galaxy A (2016) series of smartphones in India in the coming weeks.
The circle. Representing the infinite nature of energy, and the inclusivity of the universe, it is perhaps one of the most sacred and divine symbols that mankind has ever known.
In September, a smartwatch boasting this powerful shape was unveiled at IFA—a design drastically different from the rectangular styles that preceded it. The mesmerizing Gear S2 immediately set itself apart by boasting a more traditionally analog design. Likewise, the concept of the circle was also applied to the Gear VR, another device by Samsung Electronics. The virtual reality headset allows users to watch digital content in 3D with a 360-degree view—an entirely new experience for most.
Yet, it’s not just tech fans that have fallen for the charms of these circle-centric products. They have made their way into the fashion, sports and entertainment industries throughout the world.
In Vogue
On November 28, Samsung held a fashion show in collaboration with BALR., a Netherlands-based fashion brand founded by three professional soccer players. BALR. produces clothing and accessories based on the concepts of simplicity, luxury and comfort. With over 700,000 Instagram fans, the brand is constantly growing in popularity, especially among millennials.
Working hand-in-hand with Samsung, the brand showcased the Gear S2 with the unique styles of BALR. at the show.
“The union of the Gear S2 and BALR. illustrates the future of fashion and technology. Going forward, we will continue to feature technology unique to Samsung by merging IT devices with fashion.” said Menno van den Berg, Managing Director at Samsung Electronics Benelux B.V.
Gear S2 Goes Global with Circular Experience Zones
With a unique circular design, Gear S2 experience zones have sprung up in a total of 17 countries across the world. At these interactive locales, which have been established in cities such as New York, Dubai, London and San Paolo, visitors have the opportunity to try out the Gear S2 and Gear VR devices that are showcased on circular tables.
Virtually Courtside
In early October, Samsung hosted “Balls Don’t Lie” in Milan, Italy. At the event, basketball fans donned Level headphones as they watched their favorite NBA teams bring the action of the courts to Samsung’s SUHD TVs in real time.
The highlight of the event, however, was the Gear VR experience, which allowed attendees to get courtside access to the big game.
Luca Rossi, a sports enthusiast who tried out Samsung’s Gear VR first-hand stated, “I just wanted to watch the game since I love basketball, but I felt like I was actually playing the game. It was so vivid that I can’t explain. It was so real that I could turn around in a circle and see the entire venue, just as if I were really there.”
Hang Ten
Just about every surfing aficionado around the world has heard of Portugal’s Supertubos Beach, which made it the perfect location for a 4D surfing experience.
At the Moche Rip Curl Pro in October, participants were able to slip into Gear VR headsets and hop on surf boards.
“I can’t believe Samsung makes such a fun device!” exclaimed Pedro Guedes, an impressed participant, as he took off the headset. “I feel as if I just came back from surfing!”
Frederico Paiva of Samsung Electronics Portugal explained, “People will begin to see our products associated with sports more often in the future. We plan to carry out unprecedented marketing activities in an effort to bring consumers closer to Samsung.”
The Charm of the Circle
Moving away from the rectangular shape which has been so prevalent in technology in the past, the Gear S2 and Gear VR highlight the charm of the circle. These products promise satisfaction to consumers, not only in design but also functionality.
Created to display information in a circular design, the Gear S2 is appealing to the eye. The product is not only revolutionary in shape, but the functionality upgrade of the Gear S2—which is easily connected to other Android devices—has taken the world by storm. Similarly, the Gear VR, which places the user at the center of attention, is a product that is taking the mobile experience to the next level.
Both products beautifully demonstrate the power of the world’s most captivating shape and how it has inspired Samsung to lead the way in technological innovation across multiple industries and lifestyles.
Looking for something fun to play in VR? We’ve got the top 10 downloads from the last week on the WEARVR app marketplace, a cross-platform repository of virtual reality experiences.
10. DupleX – A Virtual Experience
Duplex – A Virtual Experience is a virtual walk free movement designed to show customers that the construction will be done and giving them the opportunity to choose the materials and finishes, furniture and decoration.
Platforms: Oculus Rift DK2 (Windows)
9. Don’t let Go!
Part experiment, part amazing idea for Oculus Rift, Don’t Let Go! has you sat in a chair with your hands infront of you and the only rule is that no matter what happens you can’t lift your hands. We won’t spoil it for you, but a lot happens to make you want to move your hands.. and possibly run away screaming.
Platforms: Oculus Rift DK2 (Windows)
8. Dreadeye
Please, take a seat. You’ll be here for a while. Don’t worry, you won’t be alone. Let these creatures welcome you… They’ll keep you company. Give you a taste of a dark surreal experience. Don’t be afraid just yet… Perhaps they will spare you this time around. After all… the nastiest thing they can do to you will only be virtual. But… then again… You will probably be wishing you were in a real dream.
Platforms: Oculus Rift DK2 (Windows / Mac)
7. Downtown Apartment
Here’s the latest ArchViz project using UnrealEngine4, from Leeco Studio. Explore this beautiful downtown apartment and change the materials to the color of your choice.
Platforms: Oculus Rift DK2 (Windows)
6. The Eyeland VR
Welcome to paradise. The Eyeland VR is a flagship 3D real-time environment designed for real estate visualization with interactions.
Features include:
– 3D real-time environment + Sound FX and audio – Flawless mix of interiors and exteriors scenes – Dynamic and animated elements, include Wildlife
Platforms: Oculus Rift DK2 (Windows)
5. Doll-CityVR
Doll-City VR is going to throw you inside of an agonizing “Cyberpunk” world, like the very last acid trip of a junkie. A comic book / virtual museum of a universe in which corruption and decadence exist side by side with angels, beauty and wonders. Welcome on the edge, where madness and awakening are the same face of a nightmare, where drugs slowly grind away the last hopes of the Doll-City Megalopolis.
Doll-CityVR is a game/VR experience for the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive based on the Cyberpunk universe of “Potentiel”, adapted and reimagined to offer a unique VR experience, between exploration, contemplation and different gameplay phases.
Platforms: Oculus Rift DK2 (Windows)
4. Arnswalde VR
Arnswalde, (todays Choszczno), is a town in West Pomeranian Voivodeship, Poland, granted town rights in 1284. In 1945 Arnswalde was on the front line. Because of the it’s strategic position during the Russian offensive bitter fighting occurred, which resulted in almost 80% damage of the town’s infrastructure. This is a reconstruction of the town at the turn of the twentieth century.
Platforms: Oculus Rift DK2 (Windows)
3. SONAR
Explore your surroundings and dive deep into an ancient cave system. Follow the drone ship and discover the horrific truth about the darkest of all places… “ SONAR is a new kind of cinematic entertainment, striking a balance between traditional movie making and interactive media. The shortfilm is a fully immersive, slow paced, 360° computer-generated experience.
2. VR Shooter Guns – First Person Shooter for Oculus DK2
Fight your way through the space station. The enemy is strong in numbers – be clever, take cover behind corners and lean to the side. Your mission is to stay alive!
Platforms: Oculus Rift DK2 (Windows)
1. Behind Alpha
Here comes the Alpha version of the hugely popular and terrifying ‘Behind’, from CB Games.
The consumer version of the Gear VR is currently available straight off Samsung’s website for merely £80 in the UK (instead of £99 as we would have expected based on its pricing in other regions). The product isn’t currently available on other retailers but it’s probably going to become more widely sold soon, both in the UK and other European markets. The Gear VR has already sold out in Korea and T-Mobile is set to start selling the virtual reality headset later this month.
Currently, the Gear VR is compatible with the following handsets: Galaxy Note 5, Galaxy S6 edge+, Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge. The headset also has a foam cushioning on the inside for added comfort as well as a touchpad on the right side, and there’s a lot of content for you to choose from like Land’s End, a Gear VR exclusive game, and many others. You’re only able to get the Gear VR in Frost White at the moment but in the future Samsung could add more color options.
The Gear VR headset is off to a great start, Samsung released the consumer version of its virtual reality headset over a week ago and already you might find it hard to get your hands on one. A report out of Korea says that a similar response from customers was seen on Samsung’s home turf, the Gear VR sold out in South Korea on day one.
Samsung released the Gear VR in South Korea earlier this week and it sold out on day one, though it merits mentioning here that only 2,000 units were made available for purchase initially. Nevertheless it goes to show that consumers are taking an interest in this product and the trend is likely to continue, in South Korea the Gear VR is being sold for 129,800 won which is equal to about $110. The Gear VR is compatible with the Galaxy S6, the Galaxy S6 edge, the Galaxy S6 edge+ and the Galaxy Note 5, with a significant amount of VR content already available for the headset.
With Samsung’s mobile Gear VR headset hitting stores in time for the holidays, a deluge of new VR users is on the way. If you’re among them, here’s three quick warnings you should heed.
1. Never Leave Your Gear VR Face Down or Outside
As a mobile VR headset, Gear VR is easily portable and may find itself resting on the coffee table of a living room, taken to a friend’s house, or even used outside on the patio. In any case, never leave your Gear VR headset face down (lenses up) or outside. If the sun catches the lenses at the wrong angle it can focus the rays onto your phone screen like a magnifying glass, possibly ruining the screen of your precious (and expensive!) phone.
This issue affects other headsets as well. At least one Oculus Rift user accidentally fried their device and shared the warning:
There is now a burn mark in the center of my left part of the screen from where the sunlight was focused into a small fire. I hope this save’s someone else from making the same mistake.
The face down position is especially prominent when using the Gear VR without any straps attached (like a View-Master), so be extra careful when passing it around that someone doesn’t inadvertently rest it face down, putting it in a vulnerable position as the sun sweeps across the sky and its rays across the room.
2. Never Use Gear VR Without a Phone Docked in the Headset
Gear VR is compatible with a number of different phones (depending upon which headset you have). Without a phone locked into the headset, the lenses, which normally focus light from the display into your eye, are exposed. If you are wearing the headset with no phone and accidentally look at a powerful light you can risk damaging your vision as the rays from that light will be focused into your eye. NEVER look at the sun through the bare headset.
3. Gear VR Should Not Be Used by Anyone Younger than 13
Samsung and Oculus’ official stance is that Gear VR should not be used by anyone less than 13 years old. The Gear VR manual reads:
The Gear VR should not be used by children under the age of 13. Watching videos or playing games with the Gear VR may affect the visual development of children.
Although Gear VR is fun and accessible, it may be best to play it safe even if the youngsters are begging for a try. For those older than 13, Samsung still urges caution for extended use:
When children, age 13 or older, use the Gear VR, adults should limit their usage time and ensure they take frequent breaks. Adults should monitor children closely after using the Gear VR if children feel discomfort.
It was only about two weeks ago that Samsung announced that pre-orders for the new Gear VR headsets were now open, interested customers could purchase the $99 virtual reality headset from Amazon and Best Buy aside from the company’s own website. It looks like the device is doing well for itself because it has already sold out online, both Amazon and Best Buy list the Gear VR as out of stock.
Best Buy listing for the Gear VR mentions that the device is “sold out online,” Amazon has plastered a similar “temporarily out of stock message” on its listing, adding that it will update customers when an estimated delivery date becomes known. Customers in the United States can still purchase one from Samsung’s website or even through T-Mobile later this week, it’s the only carrier in the country right now that’s going to sell the headset. A Samsung spokesperson has said that the company is “working hard to fulfill all orders as quickly as possible.”
Samsung Germany lists a delivery date of December 1, but given it has made anything official yet, we could be looking at tentative release dates that could change in the near future. In any case, consumers should be able to pick up the headset at least before the end of December. Of course, they will need a Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge, Galaxy S6 edge+ to be able to enter the world of virtual reality through the Gear VR; the Note 5 is supported as well, but that handset is not expected to be launched in the European region any time soon.
Samsung Electronics announced that the new Samsung Gear VR powered by Oculus is available for pre-order in the U.S. starting today. The new consumer edition of the Gear VR is compatible with Samsung’s 2015 flagship smartphones, the Galaxy Note 5, Galaxy S6 edge+, Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge, leveraging each device’s super AMOLED display to provide the color, clarity and performance needed for an amazing virtual reality experience.
“Samsung is leveraging its leadership in mobile, by giving millions of Samsung Galaxy smartphone owners’ access to amazing virtual reality experiences including immersive games, the ability to explore beautiful photographs and exciting videos in 360 degrees, and much more,” said Nick DiCarlo, Vice President, Immersive Products and Virtual Reality at Samsung Electronics America. “The quality of the VR experience provided by Galaxy smartphones and Oculus software is unparalleled, taking virtual reality out of the early adopter space and into the mainstream with this revolutionary product.”
“This is an incredible moment for virtual reality as we introduce the absolute best VR experience on mobile today,” said Max Cohen, Head of Mobile, Oculus. “People all over the world can now turn their mobile phone into an immersive VR experience with made-for-VR games and thousands of amazing 2D, 3D and 360 degree videos and films.”
The Gear VR is now available for pre-order on Samsung.com, Amazon.com and BestBuy.com, and will begin shipping as early as November 20. Gear VR will retail for $99.99 MSRP. It will be available online at Amazon.com, BestBuy.com, Samsung.com and at retail at BestBuy, as early as November 20. T-Mobile will offer the Gear VR beginning November 27 in stores and online at T-Mobile.com. AT&T will offer the Gear VR and will confirm specific availability.
The Samsung Gear VR is 19 percent lighter than the previous Gear VR Innovator Edition, and includes new foam cushioning to make the device more comfortable to wear. In addition, the Gear VR’s touchpad has been improved, providing greater control and easier navigation while enjoying the wide range of film, gaming, 360 degree video and experiential content available for Gear VR.
Samsung Gear VR users can play dozens of new made-for-VR games that are coming to the Oculus platform this year, including CCP’s “Gunjack” and Ustwo Games’ “Lands End”. People can also enjoy a wide range of content from Samsung Milk VR, a premium virtual reality content service, watch the entire Netflix** catalog of original series, documentaries and films, and explore Oculus Video, where viewers can watch thousands of videos and films from Lionsgate, 20th Century Fox, Twitch, and Vimeo.
Working closely with the major wireless providers, an update for the Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ and Note 5 will be available in time for the Gear VR launch to make the phones compatible with the new headset.
microUSB connection to the Galaxy Note 5, S6 edge+, S6, S6 edge
*All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.
