To go along with the just-announced Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 edge, Samsung has also unveiled a new smaller version of its Gear VR headset. The headset is very similar to the one made for the larger Note 4, but is specifically tailored to fit both the S6 and S6 edge instead. There are also several practical improvements.

The "Samsung Gear VR Innovator Edition for Galaxy S6 and S6 edge" (wow, what a name) is 15 percent smaller in total, and has new head straps that should offer a more comfortable virtual reality experience. Beyond the size, there are also a few fundamental changes to the Gear VR for the GS6 — active ventilation will keep the phone cool for extended headset use, and an external USB port means you can plug in to power and go when the battery would normally leave you short.

Samsung hasn't spilled any information on pricing or availability of the newer, smaller and improved Gear VR — we would expect to see more information when the GS6 and GS6 edge go on sale in April.

Press release:

Samsung Expands its Unrivaled Mobile Virtual Reality Experience with Gear VR Innovator Edition for Galaxy S6 and S6 edge

Samsung and Oculus refine Gear VR to provide a better, enhanced overall user experience while delivering a fully immersive content

Barcelona, Spain, March 1, 2015 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. continues its leadership in wearable technology and mobile virtual reality with its latest Samsung Gear VR Innovator Edition, fully optimized and compatible with Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 edge, its next generation smartphone.

The Samsung Gear VR Innovator Edition for Galaxy S6, powered by Oculus, gives more users the opportunity to enjoy Samsung's unrivaled, fully immersive and cinematic virtual reality experience, with improved viewing as well as a more comfortable design.

  • Extraordinary Entertainment: Optimized for both the Galaxy S6 and S6 edge, and its 5.1-inch Super AMOLED display, Gear VR Innovator Edition lets users engage with high resolution movies, TV shows, VOD services and photos like never before. With reduced pixilation and a wide field-of-view, users receive a better virtual reality experience with longer lasting usage time.
  • Improved Comfort: The 15% reduction in size makes Samsung Gear VR a more comfortable to wear. Ergonomically redesigned straps give better weight balance, while mechanical ventilation supports an extended VR experience.
  • High Quality Performance: Greater computing power and improved graphics quality enable users to explore the best virtual reality adventures.
  • USB Compatibility: The Gear VR can now be powered with its USB port for extended usage time.
  • Robust Ecosystem: Gear VR content is available for download via the Oculus Store. Users have an extensive selection of optimized, localized virtual reality content from top-tier creators including thrilling VR games and 360 degree including a new performance from Cirque du Soleil, Kurios.