Samsung is getting into the virtual reality game in a big way with their new service, Milk VR. The service is a free extension to the Gear VR headset that launched last month.
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The idea behind Milk VR is to provide content for the Gear VR system. It's basically a free service that provides new 360 degree videos to be viewed with the Gear VR. They're also hoping that it will encourage creators to start making more content for the platform as well.
According to CNet, the Gear VR retails for $199 but admittedly was released more for the use of developers and artists to give them a way to test the devices, not for mainstream consumption. The Gear VR only works in conjunction with the Galaxy Note 4 smartphone.
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The phone acts as the sort of brains for the device.
The focus of the company with this move, according to the head of Samsung's VR business, Nick DiCarlo, isn't necessarily sales right now as it is to see if people are really interested in the technology. As to why they decided to go with the Milk VR program, DiCarlo said, "There are so many ways to shoot immersive video. Milk VR can play a wide range of content."
This seems to be a way for the business to find another income source as their smartphones sales have lagged especially against competitors like Apple. By cornering the VR market, they may see new gains.
Videos for Milk VR will be available through downloading and used with the Gear VR system.