Samsung is adding a much-needed enhancement to its Gear VR with the introduction of a new Gear VR touch and gesture wireless controller developed in collaboration with Oculus. The controller will be included with the Gear VR headset once it launches, but will also be available as a separate purchase for those who already own the headset.
Samsung needs to figure out how to store this thing gracefully with the headset.
Although the controller is small, its curved design is more ergonomic than the built-in Daydream View controller and features a front trigger for selection and casual play. Plus, it has a standard layout for the volume keys, home and back buttons, with clear textural and dimensional differences so they’re easy to remember when you’re immersed in a headset. The back cover comes off, allowing you to replace two AAA batteries, which Samsung demands dozens of hours of use from.
The circular touch area is larger than the Daydream View controller, with more room to move around, as well as a multi-directional control pad at the bottom. My hand went instantly to the curves of the controller, and I really liked the inclusion of the trigger in terms of opportunities for casual games that don’t necessarily require a full controller for two-handed games. Once the controller is available, it will instantly ease the hassle of trying to get your hand near the touchpad on the Gear VR headset (which is still included even in the latest version).
