Gear VR (2016) and the Galaxy S8 - Samsung Gear VR

I have last year's version of the Gear VR and pre-ordered a Galaxy S8. In the UK the new VR is not being offered this time round (we get a Samsung wireless speaker) so I am hoping the 2016 VR will work with the S8. I have searched the web but all I find is reference to the new version being released this year.
Hoping someone might be able to confirm this.
.

apprentice said:
I have last year's version of the Gear VR and pre-ordered a Galaxy S8. In the UK the new VR is not being offered this time round (we get a Samsung wireless speaker) so I am hoping the 2016 VR will work with the S8. I have searched the web but all I find is reference to the new version being released this year.
Hoping someone might be able to confirm this.
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think it will work. The S8 has Type C USB port.

red6hu said:
I don't think it will work. The S8 has Type C USB port.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah but the VR comes with an interchangeable plug. I used it with My Note 7. I guess it's the size of the S8 and/or the software that's probably not going to work. I don't know.
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apprentice said:
Ah but the VR comes with an interchangeable plug. I used it with My Note 7. I guess it's the size of the S8 and/or the software that's probably not going to work. I don't know.
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good to know that.
The size of the S8 is smaller than the size of the Note7, so it won't be a problem.
According the below link Gear VR 2016 is compatible with the S8.
https://www.androidheadlines.com/2017/03/deal-save-50-samsung-gear-vr-2016-31417.html

red6hu said:
Good to know that.
The size of the S8 is smaller than the size of the Note7, so it won't be a problem.
According the below link Gear VR 2016 is compatible with the S8.
https://www.androidheadlines.com/2017/03/deal-save-50-samsung-gear-vr-2016-31417.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are a star! Thanks for the info
.

I've just called Samsung and they said that both S8 and S8+ will fit into the 2016 Gear VR.

I chatted with 2 different Samsung employers and one of them said it will work and the other one said it won't. Hopefully i will receive the S8 tomorrow and then i can try it myself... Any of you that have tried it?

I have the s8+ and it is too tall to fit into the gear vr even with the adjustments. Also I used micro usb to USB type C connector and it doesn't even boot up oculus. Don't think it's backwards compatible but I don't have a regular s8, so maybe it will work for that. I personally can't even get the software for gear vr to load from the headsets USB.

This does work as I have S8+ and 2016 Gear VR

SephAbdullah said:
I have the s8+ and it is too tall to fit into the gear vr even with the adjustments. Also I used micro usb to USB type C connector and it doesn't even boot up oculus. Don't think it's backwards compatible but I don't have a regular s8, so maybe it will work for that. I personally can't even get the software for gear vr to load from the headsets USB.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you using the right adaptor that came with the VR? It's a small cube that replaces the entire existing plug, by sliding a small catch. Don't use a standard micro usb to usb C adaptor, that won't work and is probably the reason your phone doesn't fit in the frame.
I can confirm that my S8 does work in the 2016 VR and have been playing a couple of games successfully ... however I have experienced a complete system lock up twice now causing the phone to reboot. One occasion was just browsing my library so it wasn't down to processor load.
I believe it's more likely to be a software issue rather than the headset, so hopefully that can be fixed as I cannot justify purchasing a new VR every 12 months.
Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

S8+ and Gear VR sm-r323
Hi, I did a bit of research into the gear vr and decided to buy the gear vr 2016 aka sm-r323 2nd generation after reading it works with s8+ so I ordered the VR from amazon @ 45quid. When I received it the models compatible were s7, s7 edge, note 5, s6, s6 edge etc... on the box.
My phone arrived on Thursday and first thing after setting up my phone was seeing if it worked with the vr 2 aka sm-r323
And all was good it downloaded all software and ran updates and the gear vr store etc.. all looked up to date.
Downloaded a few games and roller coaster demos and the Star Wars clips all ran fine no crashes.
I'm just waiting on my motion controller to arrive now 2-3 weeks from mobile fun @ 50quid.
How ever the only thing I would say is it is a tight fit. When the phone is in with the USB c clip and in the "a" position if looking at the back of the phone it is about 1-2mm higher on the right side the end which self adjusts to size of phone.
This didn't have an effect on quality or let light in etc... I didn't notice or have any issues with it.

NickOonline said:
Hi, I did a bit of research into the gear vr and decided to buy the gear vr 2016 aka sm-r323 2nd generation after reading it works with s8+ so I ordered the VR from amazon @ 45quid. When I received it the models compatible were s7, s7 edge, note 5, s6, s6 edge etc... on the box.
My phone arrived on Thursday and first thing after setting up my phone was seeing if it worked with the vr 2 aka sm-r323
And all was good it downloaded all software and ran updates and the gear vr store etc.. all looked up to date.
Downloaded a few games and roller coaster demos and the Star Wars clips all ran fine no crashes.
I'm just waiting on my motion controller to arrive now 2-3 weeks from mobile fun @ 50quid.
How ever the only thing I would say is it is a tight fit. When the phone is in with the USB c clip and in the "a" position if looking at the back of the phone it is about 1-2mm higher on the right side the end which self adjusts to size of phone.
This didn't have an effect on quality or let light in etc... I didn't notice or have any issues with it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's really helpful. Thanks! I was in two minds about selling my 2016 VR but based on what you said I'll keep it for the S8+
.
Sent from my MHA-L09 using Tapatalk

apprentice said:
Are you using the right adaptor that came with the VR? It's a small cube that replaces the entire existing plug, by sliding a small catch. Don't use a standard micro usb to usb C adaptor, that won't work and is probably the reason your phone doesn't fit in the frame.
I can confirm that my S8 does work in the 2016 VR and have been playing a couple of games successfully ... however I have experienced a complete system lock up twice now causing the phone to reboot. One occasion was just browsing my library so it wasn't down to processor load.
I believe it's more likely to be a software issue rather than the headset, so hopefully that can be fixed as I cannot justify purchasing a new VR every 12 months.
Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It seems there is a widely reported issue with the S8 freezing and rebooting generally that has nothing to do with the VR. So I am confident the 2016 VR will work fine eventually.
.
Sent from my MHA-L09 using Tapatalk

Amazon offer this year's Gear VR & controller in UK although it is rather expensive compared to the 2016 version & it frequently goes out of stock Samsung Gear VR Controller with Headphones Black https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B06XYDDQ5F/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_TmibzbG02CAD6
Sent from my SM-G930F using Tapatalk

To all potential buyers of the older generation Gear VR: Don't get misled into those reviews saying that the previous gen USB-C Gear VR (from Note 7's generation) works with the S8+. It technically does work but there are some compromises.
I currently have both, and you can very clearly tell the difference between them. I mean very clearly.
The older Gear VR's alignment is slightly off to the left if used with S8+ (the center line is not exactly in the center). But it's OK with the S8 non-plus and Note 7 if you're wondering.
The newer model has clearly less chromatic aberration and much better sharpness off-center sharpness (I'm not talking about the extreme edges, but the sides of the view screen that you very frequently look at). It's either a lens issue with the older one or because of the above problem.
It can theoretically be fixed in software but I'm not sure if they will ever do it.

Syraxius said:
The older Gear VR's alignment is slightly off to the left if used with S8+ (the center line is not exactly in the center). But it's OK with the S8 non-plus.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The alignment issue affects the standard S8 as well. Some people don't notice because they can't or don't maximize the FOV, but if you do you will definitely see part of the image intended for one eye with the other.
For the record the compatibility issue isn't with the main Gear VR unit itself but with the Type-C connector specifically. You can make the 2016 model properly compatible with S8 devices simply by acquiring and using a Type-C connector from a 2017 model (they are cross-compatible).

Colonel_Izzi said:
The alignment issue affects the standard S8 as well. Some people don't notice because they can't or don't maximize the FOV, but if you do you will definitely see part of the image intended for one eye with the other.
For the record the compatibility issue isn't with the main Gear VR unit itself but with the Type-C connector specifically. You can make the 2016 model properly compatible with S8 devices simply by acquiring and using a Type-C connector from a 2017 model (they are cross-compatible).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't see how the USB Type-C connector from the latest version of the GearVR is all that different from the connector from last years model. I think the problem maybe due to the screen aspect ratio of the SGS8 series as it has a 18.5:9 rather than a 16:9, which is what is most commonly found on past android flagships.

DarkGuyver said:
I don't see how the USB Type-C connector from the latest version of the GearVR is all that different from the connector from last years model.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See: https://www.reddit.com/r/GearVR/wik...5.2C_2016_and_2017_consumer_gear_vr_models.3F

cainn24 said:
See: https://www.reddit.com/r/GearVR/wik...5.2C_2016_and_2017_consumer_gear_vr_models.3F
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I honestly wouldn't have notice the size difference if somebody hadn't point it out to me.

Colonel_Izzi said:
The alignment issue affects the standard S8 as well. Some people don't notice because they can't or don't maximize the FOV, but if you do you will definitely see part of the image intended for one eye with the other.
For the record the compatibility issue isn't with the main Gear VR unit itself but with the Type-C connector specifically. You can make the 2016 model properly compatible with S8 devices simply by acquiring and using a Type-C connector from a 2017 model (they are cross-compatible).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Damn, so better get a good BoboVR Z4 and activate Gear VR developer mode to get most of both worlds
The 2017 connector is not easy to find

Related

Note 4 Gear VR compatible with Note 5?

Now that Note 5 is officially announced, I am trying to find some official/semi-official information on whether Note 4 Gear VR will be compatible with Note 5? Any ideas?
Thanks,
Osho
Of course not. Different sizes, they told they are about to release a. New compatible version for them
Honestly they are the same size...I don't see why it wouldn't work. My friend just got his note 5 today so I will give it a try in my Note 4 Gear VR
Never Mind http://www.ubergizmo.com/2015/08/samsung-galaxy-note-5-doesnt-fit-gear-vr/
marcochapita said:
Of course not. Different sizes, they told they are about to release a. New compatible version for them
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They never said that exactly. They told us to wait for Oculus Connect before buying a new phone, so that could mean no Gear VR for the Note 5 if they decide on announcing a VR phone.
What about Note Edge?
Will any VR work with note edge either Glaxay Vr or Innovator edition?
Any trick....!
Sent from my SM-N910C using xda premium
ipsuvedi said:
What about Note Edge?
Will any VR work with note edge either Glaxay Vr or Innovator edition?
Any trick....!
Sent from my SM-N910C using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No support for the Note Edge.
Got my note 5 and have been trying to connect it to the gear VR (Note 4 version). I got the oculus apps installed (ported from my Note 4 using Samsung smart switch), but the micro usb connector on the gear vr has a bump on it which stops anything other than the Note 4 from connecting. I looked inside the Note 4 micro usb port and I can see a notch to accommodate the bump. So Samsung succeeded in making a standardized connector into a proprietary one. *Hurray!*
Anyway, I then bought a micro usb extender cable and cut the notch into it myself. Still a no go. The extender doesn't fit on all the way (only about 4/5 the way). It seems like the female end on the Note 4 not only has a notch, but is also deeper *Hurray again!*
I tried connecting the Note 4 with the extender anyway, but couldn't get it to enter the oculus app. My last thought is to file down the bump on the gear vr connector. My only concern is that the bump is required to engage something on the Note 4. Definitely don't want to make a $200 mistake.
Has anyone tried shaving this bump down? Or has anyone heard of someone trying this?
Update: I filed down the bump and got the Note 5 to fit. Unfortunately, nothing happened. I'll try again after the official firmware update. However, I also tried the Galaxy S6 and S6 edge with no luck and those do have the firmware needed so it looks like there is a software lock preventing anything other than the Note 4 from working. The good news is that the Note 4 still fits and works :thumb: I'll be posting about this on the Techisode TV channel if anyone wants to see images and video of the process.
Update 2: video uploaded.
How about changing build prop. Wonder if it checks build prop for verification. Also wonder if there was any vr apps already pre-installed before you sidesynced anything. If so try using vr setup wizard. Then again the S6 didn't work so probably no go. Could be a kernel thing. That's what delayed the lollipop update back then for devices with gear vr software.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N910A using Tapatalk
What a pity Galaxy Note 5 not work with Gear VR.
This isnt too bad of a Necro, but curious if anyone had any other trys with this
I don't think anyone else is going to bother now that the latest Gear VR iteration got confirmed yesterday at Oculus Connect, with Note 5 and S6e+ support along with the smaller S6 variants. At least the Note 5 can do Gear VR after all.
If anything, what might make me curious is the inverse: taking that recent Gear VR iteration, when it hits store shelves, and checking to see if the Note 4 acknowledges it at all. I'm guessing not, since it's not officially supported and the USB descriptor probably won't match up enough for the Gear VR Service to do its thing.
I hope the Note 4 works with the new gear VR. I don't like the direction Samsung is going with there product support and I don't like the Note 5. The gear VR for the Note 4 clearly has issues that have been resolved with subsequent versions. It's extremely disappointing Samsung most likely will ignore and forget the Note 4, especially even more disappointing since it's the device that started this VR evolution.

Note8 and Gear VR

As first previews showed, Note8 won't fit 2017 Gear VR. So new Note8 owners will have to wait until next, a bit bigger Gear VR will be released.
Sent from my SM-G935F using XDA-Developers Legacy app
AtxX said:
As first previews showed, Note8 won't fit 2017 Gear VR. So new Note8 owners will have to wait until next, a bit bigger Gear VR will be released.
Sent from my SM-G935F using XDA-Developers Legacy app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is really annoying. I am getting a Note 8 and this will be my third Gear VR in 18 months! Samsung sure know how to fleece their loyal customers.
.
apprentice said:
This is really annoying. I am getting a Note 8 and this will be my third Gear VR in 18 months! Samsung sure know how to fleece their loyal customers.
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Apparently it will fit into the 2016 edition of the GearVR if you purchase the USB Type-C adapter that comes with the Note 8 edition of the GearVR. I think that is probably all you need to the early 2017 edition of the GearVR.
iceepyon said:
Apparently it will fit into the 2016 edition of the GearVR if you purchase the USB Type-C adapter that comes with the Note 8 edition of the GearVR. I think that is probably all you need to the early 2017 edition of the GearVR.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I buckled in the end and bought the Note 8 version. It did fit in the older version but not quite flush, which meant there was slight distortion on the left hand side. So pissed that I had to part with more of my cash but it seemed inevitable.
A bit of a bonus is that the newer version seems to be broader on the nose recess, meaning my nose isn't uncomfortably squashed now.
--

Can anyone confirm the previous 2016/17 Gear VR works with the Note 8?

I bought a Gear VR for my Galaxy S7 and then upgraded it shortly after to accommodate the Galaxy S8+ and now I am getting the Note 8 Samsung decides to fleece us again with yet another new Gear VR version because allegedly the old ones won't be compatible. They haven't even made the new one available to pre-order outside the US yet either. So thanks again Samsung.
However... I am wondering if any of you have the older VR and a Note 8 to confirm if it does fit and/or work properly?? It would save me a hundred quid if it does
.
New VR for Note8 required
Sorry,
unfortunately you have to buy the new GearVR. The Note8 is simply too long for the old one.
Grumf
The 2016 won't definitely fit a Note 8, someone here needed to cut his apart with a dremel to fit the Note 8. For the 1st 2017 one that came with the s8, a lot of people have said that it fits, but it's a really, really, tight fit. It's probably on you on how comfortable you are squeezing your Note 8 in there every time you take it in or out, or it's worth $125 to get the 2nd 2017 version. In any case, as long as you get the phone in and lined up, all versions (2016, 2017-1, 2017-2) will recognize the Note and format the image perfectly to fit the field of view.
apprentice said:
I bought a Gear VR for my Galaxy S7 and then upgraded it shortly after to accommodate the Galaxy S8+ and now I am getting the Note 8 Samsung decides to fleece us again with yet another new Gear VR version because allegedly the old ones won't be compatible. They haven't even made the new one available to pre-order outside the US yet either. So thanks again Samsung.
However... I am wondering if any of you have the older VR and a Note 8 to confirm if it does fit and/or work properly?? It would save me a hundred quid if it does
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are a couple threads in the discussion section devoted to this topic. In short, your S8 one will work fine.
PsiPhiDan said:
There are a couple threads in the discussion section devoted to this topic. In short, your S8 one will work fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I did do a quick sweep of the Note 8 discussion sections but didn't find a definitive answer.
Thanks
--
It will work with the S8 version. I am using it now. It's definitely a tighter fit but works well. Don't know it it will do long term damage tho.
apprentice said:
I bought a Gear VR for my Galaxy S7 and then upgraded it shortly after to accommodate the Galaxy S8+ and now I am getting the Note 8 Samsung decides to fleece us again with yet another new Gear VR version because allegedly the old ones won't be compatible. They haven't even made the new one available to pre-order outside the US yet either. So thanks again Samsung.
However... I am wondering if any of you have the older VR and a Note 8 to confirm if it does fit and/or work properly?? It would save me a hundred quid if it does
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the one from my s8+ at home, never opened or used it, I will check the fit and function today and let you know.
Mr. Moe said:
I have the one from my s8+ at home, never opened or used it, I will check the fit and function today and let you know.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Appreciate that
--
harveydent said:
The 2016 won't definitely fit a Note 8, someone here needed to cut his apart with a dremel to fit the Note 8. For the 1st 2017 one that came with the s8, a lot of people have said that it fits, but it's a really, really, tight fit. It's probably on you on how comfortable you are squeezing your Note 8 in there every time you take it in or out, or it's worth $125 to get the 2nd 2017 version. In any case, as long as you get the phone in and lined up, all versions (2016, 2017-1, 2017-2) will recognize the Note and format the image perfectly to fit the field of view.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine from my note 7 don't fit
Sent from my SM-N950U using Xparent Purple Tapatalk 2
cherylbaker said:
Mine from my note 7 don't fit
Sent from my SM-N950U using Xparent Purple Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that's the 2016 version that you have to cut into with power tools
2017 s8/s8 plus one will work.
apprentice said:
Appreciate that
--
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verified it with the GEAR VR I got with my S8+...It works, the fit is real snug which is good... but it does work, no modification needed...
Mr. Moe said:
Verified it with the GEAR VR I got with my S8+...It works, the fit is real snug which is good... but it does work, no modification needed...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Excellent mate. Thanks for checking! You may have save me a few quid
..
Can confirm it DOES work, but its a really tight fit... tight enough, that I wonder if I either should whip out the dremel, or just buy the new version and sell this one.
I've heard that if you purchase the USB Type-C connector that comes with the Note 8 edition of the GearVR. It should make the 2016 and 2017 edition of the GearVR compatible with the Note 8. Just purchase the GH98-41582A adapter. Apparently it is deeper and the USB Type-C connector slightly higher up than that on the adapter that came with the 2016 and 2017 GearVR.
What version is the SM-R322? Will this work with the Note 8? Cheers
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
Mr. Moe said:
Verified it with the GEAR VR I got with my S8+...It works, the fit is real snug which is good... but it does work, no modification needed...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How did you get it to fit?? I would have to push the phone down really hard to get it to pop in but then I feel like I might break the charging port

which VR headsets work best?

When I got both my s8 the promo was 6 months Netflix and a micosd card. Now that I switched to note 8. The promo was the watch for 50 bucks. So I missed on the gear promo. So many people got a free VR no one is looking to buy them. My question should I spend 120 bucks on the Samsung one? Even heard the 2017 one works but that's 80 bucks. The other day at Wal-Mart I seen a cheap onn brand for like 12 bucks and it fits the note8. What will I miss out on if I pick up something cheaper?
I have several VR that I use for my Note 3, Been using it on my Note 8 and try Gear VR, not even come close to Gear VR experience. Will be getting Gear VR end of this month.
the gear VR has its own exclusive VR environment and apps that aren't available with any other headset.
the gear VR also has support for a "laser pointer" controller(included in some versions) which doesn't work with any other headset.
and the gear VR has a touchpad for input, where others have at most a single button.
aside from that it's just a well designed VR headset.
I got the Gear VR (SM-R324) on eBay for $45 shipped, slightly used. I made sure the images showed the right USB-C adapter piece. It was designed for the Galaxy S8+ but works on Note 8. There's a VERY slight fitment issue but it works right out of the box. For the fitment to be perfect, you just have to cut, drill, or dremel out 2 small sections of plastic that interface with the top corners of the phone, opposite the USB-C connector. If done right, it would be hard to even know it was modded. I'm planning to finish my mods soon and will share an image.
I've used Google Cardboard and Gear VR and the Gear VR wins hands down especially one with the controller. I got mine free from using Samsung pay points. I did all those promos in the month of October and easily obtained 12,000 points.
Thanks guys. I brought the 8+ one and will make the mods. I have 3 phones 2 s8 and one note8 so I did the Amazon card promo and got 50% of the purchase price off lol. Unfortunately I did not do the October promos since I was blind to such a cool way of paying with Samsung pay. Only after I got a 200 Amazon gift card from opening a credit card through my union that I was like might as well get the gear 3 watch and that's when I learned more about a this.
on the S8/S8+ version you don't need to make any alterations.
it's a tight fit, but it will work.

Which VR?

Hi all,
Just got a Note 9 and was thinking about VR. Googling failed to reveal much about the current state of the market so I'm not sure which kit to buy. Seems like most of them have their own closed ecosystem? Anyone got a good link comparing the options? Thanks.
You would have to get the latest model SM-R324, which comes with the bundle Gear VR Controller. But you will have to contact Samsung for a special adapter in order to use your Note 9 in the Gear VR as the Note 9 is slightly thicker than the Note 8. Samsung will provide the adapter to you free of charge, once they have asked you a few questions.
iceepyon said:
You would have to get the latest model SM-R324, which comes with the bundle Gear VR Controller. But you will have to contact Samsung for a special adapter in order to use your Note 9 in the Gear VR as the Note 9 is slightly thicker than the Note 8. Samsung will provide the adapter to you free of charge, once they have asked you a few questions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's an N960F, didn't come with a controller. I was wondering if the Gear VR would be the best option here since it's kind of pricey and requires an adapter and all. Anyway I'm giving the DESTEK V4 VR a try, it states compatibility with the Note9, comes with a Dream controller and I can just send it back to Amazon if it doesn't work well enough.
randomb0y said:
It's an N960F, didn't come with a controller. I was wondering if the Gear VR would be the best option here since it's kind of pricey and requires an adapter and all. Anyway I'm giving the DESTEK V4 VR a try, it states compatibility with the Note9, comes with a Dream controller and I can just send it back to Amazon if it doesn't work well enough.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That will probably work with Google Cardboard apps. But if you want the full Samsung Oculus Gear VR experience, you will need to get the Gear VR. I got mine with my work bonus last year. I only use it for 360 videos. I find VR gaming to be quite nauseating. But it is gaming on the GearVR is pretty fun.

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