2016 was supposed to be the year virtual reality became reality and shocked the entire hi-tech industry…at least according to its ardent fans. In fact, it has remained a niche hobby in full creation, but still full of potential.
High-tech investors are therefore at least not missing out. The latest release is none other than Sony and PlayStation VR, but it’s the PlayStation VR that, according to many observers, has the best chance of winning this market first among the public.
Orange wants its share of the pie. So today it reveals the VR-1 virtual reality headset developed by Strax and powered by a smartphone. Android or iOS from 4.7 to 6 inches. It weighs 410 grams, offers 120° of view and integrates the earphones directly into its design.
But it will of course be a much less essential experience than the HTC Vive or Oculus Rift, and much closer to a Samsung Gear VR accessible to everyone. It will be available for €49.99 “for the next three months” in France, Spain, Belgium, Poland and Luxembourg.
A simple helmet won’t be enough to convince, of course. It needs special experiences. For this, Orange will offer a special application for the headset. OrangeVR 360will give its buyers access to a game, an animated short film and an educational film.
With this initiative, Orange can effectively capture the curiosity of the general public, who perhaps have little interest in technology. But for mobile technologists, the Google DayDream and Pixel earbuds seem much more appropriate.
