Xiaomi launches Mi VR Play virtual reality headset

Xiaomi has announced its maiden VR headset, named simply, Mi VR Play. Earlier today, news regarding Xiaomi launching a VR headset had leaked online. The Xiaomi Mi VR Play headset will be compatible with smartphones from 4.7-inch to 5.7-inch in size. As an introductory offer, Xiaomi is offering the Mi VR Play headset for a mere RMB 1, which comes to around Rs 11. This is part of a beta program for users in mainland China only. Xiaomi has received around 1 million registrations in around 8 hours after the beta programme was announced on 1 August. The Mi VR Play looks like a refined version of the ANT VR headset we have seen with the Lenovo Note series phones. The headset looks less sophisticated than the Samsung Galaxy Gear VR or the Oculus Rift. According to the source which leaked the Mi VR Play information, the pricing is expected to be around $99 which comes to around Rs 6700 approximately. The headset is ‘wrapped in lightweight, durable Lycra for long-lasting comfort’ says the press release. The differentiating aspect of the Xiaomi Mi VR headset is that it comes with a 2-way zipper which helps with a firm grip on the 4.7-inch to 5.7-inch smartphones. The Mi VR Play headset will be accompanied by a Mi VR app which is based on an open platform which tends to incorporate extensive library content from various partners. The current list of partners includes Conde Nast Traveller, YouKu and Korea’s Dooribun. The exact price and availability date of the Mi VR Play headset has yet to be announced. We will update the copy accordingly.