Immerse VR – Virtual Reality Headset

Joining the ranks of Google Cardboard, Gear VR and others, the Immerse VR is an HMD that works in conjunction with a smartphone to provide the screen and computational inner workings for a virtual reality headset. In this sense, the Immerse VR is nothing particularly unique, but it fits squarely into a niche between the cheap and disposable Cardboard and more expensive, higher end headsets like the Gear VR.

This HMD can accommodate most phones with screen sizes up to 5.7 inches. It has protective blanking covering on either side of the phone holder, which can be removed to allow access to the headphone socket and other nearby connectors. The hinged phone holder has spring-loaded clips to ensure that the phone stays in position, and a simple quick-release button allows for easy access to your phone without the need to remove the headset.

The Immerse VR is quite robust as HMDs go, with ample padding and an adjustable headstrap. The lenses are large in comparison to those in the Google Cardboard, and they allow for interpupillary adjustment as well as focus adjustment via a focus ring mechanism, like the ones found on a camera.

One issue the Immerse has; is it does not allow for any sort of control mechanism, unlike the Cardboard’s magnetic ring or the touchpad of the Gear VR. This means you’ll need a bluetooth controller (such as a gamepad) or a tethered USB controller (perhaps with some modification to the access hole) if you want to use the Immerse as a mobile HMD. Using software such as the Trinus VR, you could also use the Immerse as a cheaper tethered HMD.

Some users have reported overheating issues with some models of phone, and therefore some ventilation modifications may be necessary if you find that your phone is overheating within the casing.

For users who want to experience something a little closer to a ‘real’ HMD, but don’t want to pay top-end prices for the privilege, the Immerse may very well the first step in consumer-grade virtual reality.