Xiaomi surprised fans when it confirmed that it is entering VR territory with its first-ever virtual reality headset.
Dubbed the Mi VR Play, the new Xiaomi accessory was teased by the company as early as last month, although Xiaomi did not specify then the debut of the new VR headset. According to Android Authority, one of the best features of the new Mi VR Play headset is that Xiaomi chose to tweaked the design rather than focus solely on specs. Unlike other VR systems, the new Mi VR Play is made of Spandex and Lycra, and has zippers instead of Velcro fits. There are also two front openings that both serve as adjustment and cooling holes for the smartphone. The Mi VR Play is fully adjustable and can accommodate smartphones with screen sizes ranging from 4.7-5.7-inch displays.
Aside from the hardware, Xiaomi has also announced that a new VR companion app for the Mi VR Play will go live. The new VR app will contain virtual reality content from third-party Xiaomi partners, and from the company's own extensive VR library.
Since this is a Xiaomi product, it is expected that it will come out with budget-friendly price tags. It is highly likely, since the Mi VR Play is also tagged as an entry-level headset, targeted for early VR dabblers who don't want to shell out at least hundreds of dollars for top-tier VR systems like the HTC Vive and Oculus Rift. However, fans will have to wait a bit longer, as Xiaomi has yet to announce a roll-out date for the Mi VR Play.
There is already a limited number of units shipped out, although they are for beta testers. Xiaomi has announced the beta test earlier this month, and there are reportedly more than a million volunteers. It is unclear on how many beta testers Xiaomi has picked among the registrants.
