LG has teamed up with Google to give free virtual reality accessories to consumers who buy new LG G3 smartphones.
Aiming to help make virtual reality (VR) mainstream, LG will soon start promoting its VR headset based on Google's Cardboard device. More specifically, this Google Cardboard accessory called VR for G3 can be paired with the LG G3 to play various VR games and VR-compatible apps that are available through Google Play.
"Unlike other head-mounted VR devices that are designed with their own processors and displays, VR for G3 takes advantage of the visual and sound capabilities of G3 to offer a lighter and more convenient solution. Thanks to the LG G3's class-leading Quad HD display, VR for G3 is able to provide users with much sharper image quality for a smoother, more realistic VR experience," LG touts in a new press release on Tuesday, Feb. 10.
Moreover, VR for G3 sports a unique design that aims to maximize the LG G3's signature Rear Key layout, which places the volume rockers on the back of the smartphone rather than on the side. According to LG, this unique design also means that VR for G3 will make the most of the smartphone's 1W speaker with Boost AMP to deliver clear and rich sound effects. Users will also be able to combine VR for G3 with Bluetooth headsets such as the LG Tone Infinim for a wireless experience.
As previously mentioned, VR for G3 is based on the blueprint for Google Cardboard. The gadget has a neodymium ring magnet on the side, which works with the magnetic gyroscope sensor of the LG G3, allowing users to select applications and browse through menus without needing to touch the display. Simply inserting the smartphone in the viewer will do the trick, as VR for G3 doesn't require any other assembly.
"While still in its infancy, this is just the beginning of the virtual reality movement which until recently was expensive and inaccessible to everyday consumers," adds Chris Yie, vice president and head of marketing communications at the LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. "By leveraging Google Cardboard, not only are regular consumers able to participate in the VR experience, we'll be able to introduce this technology to future developers who may one day show us how VR can be used to improve our lives."
"With Google Cardboard, we wanted to create more immersive and delightful experiences for anyone on their mobile devices," further touts Andrew Nartker, Google Cardboard Product Manager. "We are excited about VR for G3, and the rich ecosystem of developers and manufacturers who are innovating with Google Cardboard and making VR more easily accessible."
This new promotion that will bundle the VR accessory with new LG G3 smartphones will roll out this month in select markets, but LG has yet to provide an exact date or specific markets where VR for G3 will be available. The company should offer more information shortly, and we'll keep you up to date as soon as it does.
