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Samsung Gear VR User Manual

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MOBILE DEVICE
User Manual
Please read this manual before operating
your device and keep it for future reference.

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Summary of Contents for Samsung Gear VR

  • Page 1 MOBILE DEVICE User Manual Please read this manual before operating your device and keep it for future reference.
  • Page 2 2D, 3D, and 360-degree content by connecting it with your mobile device. You can also view webpages and your own 360-degree images or videos. Connect other devices, such as the included Gear VR controller or other Bluetooth game controllers, with the mobile device for a more immersive experience.
  • Page 3 Internet Address: samsung.com ©2017 Samsung Electronics America, Inc. Samsung is a registered trademark of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Do you have questions about your Samsung Mobile Device? For 24 hour information and assistance, we offer a new FAQ/ARS System (Automated Response...

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    44 Connecting the mobile warnings device and wearing the Gear Wearing the Gear VR 26 Additional Notifications 52 Installing the Mobile Device 61 Preparing the controller for Safety information 66 Installing the Gear VR app (Oculus) and connecting the controller...
  • Page 5 Table of Contents Basics Viewing content 76 Using the Charger 90 Viewing content on the Oculus Home screen 78 Using the Gear VR's touchpad 95 Viewing content on the mobile device 80 Using the controller 98 Viewing online content 83 Moving the pointer or the...

  • Page 6: Read Me First

    Use the Gear VR for its intended purpose only. Using the Gear VR for other purposes may result in injury. • The Gear VR cannot be operated by itself. To use the Gear VR, connect a mobile device to it. Visit www.samsung.com to see a list of compatible mobile devices.
  • Page 7 Read me first Instructional icons Warning: situations that could cause injury to yourself or others Caution: situations that could cause damage to your device or other equipment Notice: notes, usage tips, or additional information...

  • Page 8: Health And Safety Warnings

    Gear The Gear VR can be affected by magnetic interference created by items, such as computers, TVs, or electric cables. Avoid using the Gear VR in areas affected by magnetic interference. Keep the lenses clean and protect them from getting scratched.
  • Page 9 HEALTH & SAFETY WARNINGS: To reduce the risk of personal injury, discomfort or property damage, please ensure that all users of the Gear VR read the warnings below carefully before using the Gear VR. Before Using the Gear VR •...
  • Page 10 Health and safety warnings • Your Gear VR is not designed for use with any ineligible device, accessory and/or software. Use of an ineligible device, accessory and/or software may result in injury to you or others, and may cause performance issues or damage to your system and related services.
  • Page 11 Such seizures are more common in children and young people under the age of 20. Anyone who has had a seizure, loss of awareness, or other symptom linked to an epileptic condition should see a doctor before using the Gear VR.
  • Page 12 Health and safety warnings Children The Gear VR should not be used by children under the age of 13, as young children are in a critical period in visual development. Adults should monitor children (age 13 and older) who are using or have...
  • Page 13 Gear VR. • Use Only In A Safe Environment: The Gear VR produces an immersive virtual reality experience that distracts you from and completely blocks your view of your actual surroundings.
  • Page 14 Avoid using the Gear VR in areas affected by magnetic interference. • Make sure the Gear VR is level and secured comfortably on your head, and that you see a single, clear image. If you wear the Gear VR tilted to one side, you may feel discomfort.
  • Page 15 • A comfortable virtual reality experience requires an unimpaired sense of motion and balance. Do not use the Gear VR when you are tired, need sleep, are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, are hung-over, have digestive problems, are under...
  • Page 16 • Do not use the Gear VR while in a moving vehicle such as a car, bus, or train, as this can increase your susceptibility to adverse symptoms.
  • Page 17 − The Gear VR should be adjusted for each individual user, and calibrated before starting a virtual reality experience. Failure to follow this instruction may increase the risk of discomfort.
  • Page 18 Health and safety warnings Discomfort • Immediately discontinue use if anyone using the Gear VR experiences any of the following symptoms: seizures; loss of awareness; eye strain; eye or muscle twitching; involuntary movements; altered, blurred, or double vision or other visual abnormalities;...
  • Page 19 (such as playing sports or riding a bicycle, etc.) until you have fully recovered from any symptoms. • Do not use the Gear VR until all symptoms have completely subsided for several hours. Make sure you have properly configured the Gear VR before resuming use.
  • Page 20 Health and safety warnings Repetitive Stress Injury Using the Gear VR can make your muscles, joints or skin hurt. If any part of your body becomes tired or sore while using the Gear VR, or if you feel symptoms such as tingling, numbness, burning or stiffness, stop and rest for several hours before using the Gear VR again.
  • Page 21 Health and safety warnings Controller • Your Gear VR may have come with a third-party controller. • Consult the manufacturer for health and safety warnings for the controller. • Always use included wrist straps with controllers to secure the controller to your wrist when in use.
  • Page 22 Health and safety warnings • Risk of fire. Batteries could ignite, explode or leak if installed backwards, disassembled, overcharged, punctured, crushed, mixed with used or other battery types, or directly exposed to fire or high temperature. Do not recharge disposable batteries. Replace all batteries in a single device at the same time.
  • Page 23 Using other accessories may invalidate your warranty and may cause damage. Take care not to stand up or move around while the Gear VR is “plugged in”, as this may cause injury to the user or damage the device.
  • Page 24 Contagious Conditions To avoid transferring contagious conditions (like pink eye), do not share the Gear VR with persons with contagious conditions, infections or diseases, particularly of the eyes, skin or scalp. The Gear VR should be cleaned between each use with skin-friendly antibacterial wipes (particularly the lenses) and dried with a microfiber cloth.
  • Page 25 Health and safety warnings Skin Irritation The Gear VR is worn next to your skin and scalp. Stop using the Gear VR if you notice swelling, itchiness, or other irritation. If symptoms persist, contact a doctor. To avoid damage to the Gear VR •...

  • Page 26: Additional Notifications

    When the Gear VR detects high temperature, a message appears on the screen warning you to stop wearing the Gear VR and to wait until it cools down. Stop using the Gear VR until the mobile device has cooled down, then resume use.
  • Page 27 Health and safety warnings • The mobile device’s battery runtime may become shorter than normal when it is used with the Gear VR since VR applications use more of the device’s resources and may contribute to battery drain. − You may experience slow loading speed or diminished...

  • Page 28: Safety Information

    Safety information To prevent injury to yourself and others or damage to your device, read the safety information about your device before using it. Use the device for its intended purpose only. Do not drop or cause an impact to the charger or the device.

  • Page 29: Safety Information

    Safety information Do not bite or suck the device. Children or animals can choke on small parts. Do not insert the device or supplied accessories into the eyes, ears, or mouth. Doing so may cause suffocation or serious injuries. Do not expose the device to heavy smoke or fumes. Doing so may damage the outside of the device or cause it to malfunction.

  • Page 30: Safety Information

    Safety information The device can be used in locations with an ambient temperature of 0 °C to 35 °C. You can store the device at an ambient temperature of -20 °C to 50 °C. Using or storing the device outside of the recommended temperature ranges may damage the device or reduce the battery’s lifespan.

  • Page 31: Safety Information

    Ensure the headset cable is not twisted around nearby objects. Do not use the device if it is cracked or broken. Broken glass or acrylic could cause injury to your hands and face. Take the device to a Samsung Service Centre to have it repaired.

  • Page 32: Safety Information

    Safety information Use manufacturer-approved batteries, chargers, accessories, and supplies. Samsung cannot be responsible for the user’s safety when using accessories or supplies that are not approved by Samsung. Do not disassemble, modify, or repair your device. Any changes or modifications to your device can void your manufacturer’s warranty.

  • Page 33: Safety Information

    Safety information Handle and dispose of the device and charger with care. • Never place the battery or device on or in heating devices, such as microwave ovens, stoves, or radiators. • Never crush or puncture the device. Allow only qualified personnel to service your device. Allowing unqualified personnel to service your device may result in damage to your device and will void your manufacturer’s warranty.

  • Page 34: Getting Started

    Getting started Package contents Check the product box for the following items: • Gear VR, top strap, main strap, Micro USB connector, Micro USB device holder (for replacement), controller, wrist strap, controller holder, two AAA batteries, and user manual •...

  • Page 35: Device Layout

    Getting started Device layout Gear VR Focus adjustment Back key wheel Home key Front cover Touchpad Volume key...
  • Page 36 Press and hold to open the Universal Back menu. You can view the status of the Gear VR and configure settings. • Volume Press to adjust the Gear VR volume. • Focus Rotate to focus by adjusting the adjustment distance between the mobile device wheel and the Gear VR's lenses.
  • Page 37 Getting started Main strap loop Top strap loop Device holder Main strap loop (left) Multipurpose jack (USB Device holder Type-C) (right) Proximity sensor Foam cushioning Lenses...
  • Page 38 Getting started • The Gear VR does not require charging as it is powered using the mobile device’s battery. • You can charge your mobile device by connecting a charger to the Gear VR's multipurpose jack. Use only Samsung-approved chargers. Unapproved chargers can cause the mobile device's battery to explode or damage your devices.
  • Page 39 Getting started − If you use the Gear VR while the charger is connected to the Gear VR's multipurpose jack, it is powered by the charger and does not use the mobile device's battery. When you use content that has high power demand (more than 1 A) while the charger is connected, the Gear VR uses two power sources.
  • Page 40 Getting started Controller You can connect the controller to a mobile device connected with a Gear VR via Bluetooth. Control various Gear VR features with the controller keys and touchpad. Home key Touchpad Volume key Trigger Indicator light Back key...
  • Page 41 For more information, refer to Using the controller. (p. 80) When the controller is not connected with a Gear VR: • Press and hold to enter Bluetooth pairing mode. When the controller is connected...
  • Page 42 • Press to return to the previous screen. • Press and hold to open the Back Universal menu. You can view the status of the Gear VR and configure settings. • Press to adjust the Gear VR Volume volume. •...
  • Page 43 Getting started Indicator light Colour Status • Flashes red, green, and The controller is in Bluetooth blue pairing mode. • Flashes blue three times Bluetooth is connected. • Flashes blue one time Sleep mode is deactivated.

  • Page 44: Connecting The Mobile Device And Wearing The Gear Vr

    Gear • Factory lens protectors are pre-installed on the Gear VR. Remove the lens protectors before you use the Gear VR so you can see clearly. • Keep the lenses clean and protect them from getting scratched.
  • Page 45 Ensure that you keep your face clean and dry when wearing the Gear VR. • When you remove the Gear VR from your head, the mobile device’s screen locks and the touch pad stops working. •...
  • Page 46 Getting started Connecting straps Insert the ends of the straps through the strap loops on the Gear VR and use the velcro to fasten each end.
  • Page 47 Getting started Removing straps Remove the top strap by pulling its loop towards the foam cushioning. Then, remove the main strap from the Gear VR.
  • Page 48 Getting started Replacing the device holder The USB Type-C device holder is attached to the Gear VR by default. If your mobile device's multipurpose jack is USB Type-C, you can connect the mobile device to the Gear VR. If your mobile device's...
  • Page 49 Getting started Slide the lock switch to the position and remove the device holder from the Gear VR. Lock switch...
  • Page 50 Getting started Select another device holder. While the lock switch is in the position, slide the device holder into the holder slot. Then, lock position. the holder by sliding the lock switch to the...
  • Page 51 This may damage the lock switch's latch. • Ensure that you lock the device holder by sliding the lock position. If not, the mobile device may switch to the accidentally separate from the Gear VR and be damaged.

  • Page 52: Installing The Mobile Device

    Getting started Installing the Mobile Device This section outlines the process for removing the cover, replacing the device holder, and then installing the desired device type. Removing the Cover Gently pull the right device holder outwards, then gently remove the protective front cover.
  • Page 53 If the lenses get dirty or steam up, clean them with the lens cleaning cloth. When you are not wearing the Gear VR, do not place objects on the proximity sensor inside the Gear VR. Doing so may cause the proximity sensor to...
  • Page 54 Getting started Connecting the mobile device Position A: For larger devices. Position B: For smaller devices. Device holder (left) Device holder (right) Pull the device holder (right) to the right ( ), verify the Lock Switch is in the correct “locked” position ( ), and gently push the device holder into either position A or B ( ) depending on...
  • Page 55 Getting started Carefully insert the mobile device (face down) at an angle into the center of the Gear VR and then insert the Gear VR connector ) into the mobile device’s USB port. Ensure that the connector is fully inserted into the mobile device’s USB port.
  • Page 56 Improper installation can scratch the mobile device. Insert the mobile device into the center of the Gear VR and gently push the mobile device until it locks into place ( The device holder (right) will return to the previous position and hold the mobile device ( ).
  • Page 57 Gear VR did not recognize the connection. Carefully reconnect the mobile device until you hear the sound. Do not leave the Gear VR in direct sunlight. Exposure to direct sunlight can damage the Gear VR and the connected mobile device.
  • Page 58 Getting started Wearing the Gear VR Place the Gear VR on your head and adjust the length of the top strap and the main strap. Do not walk or drive while wearing the Gear VR. Always be aware of your surroundings while using the Gear VR to avoid...
  • Page 59 Getting started • Wear the Gear VR properly. If you wear the Gear VR tilted to one side, it may cause discomfort. • If the screen shifts to the left or right, check if the device holder (left) is in the correct position. Reconnect your...
  • Page 60 Getting started Separating the devices Separate the mobile device from the Gear VR when you finish using Carefully pull the device holder (right) outward ( ), remove the connected mobile device ( ) by carefully sliding it outwards at an angle.

  • Page 61: Preparing The Controller For Use

    Getting started Preparing the controller for use Connecting the wrist strap When you connect the wrist strap to your controller, you can use the controller safely without dropping it. While pressing on the backside of the controller, slide the battery cover in the direction shown below to open it. Do not bend or twist the battery cover excessively.
  • Page 62 Getting started Insert the wrist strap loop into the wrist strap connection hole and attach it to the hook to secure it. Installing the batteries Insert batteries with the positive and negative terminals properly aligned with the + and - symbols on the controller.
  • Page 63 Getting started Place the battery cover on the controller and slide the battery cover back until it clicks back into place. • If the indicator light flashes red while using the controller, replace the batteries. • Do not recharge the provided batteries (AAA batteries).
  • Page 64 Getting started Using the controller holder You can attach the controller holder to the Gear VR's main strap to store your controller when not using it. Thread the Gear VR's main strap through the controller holder.
  • Page 65 Getting started Put your controller in the controller holder to store it. Insert the controller into the controller holder properly. If it is not securely inserted, the controller may accidentally separate from the controller holder and become damaged. If you do not use the controller for an extended period, store the controller after removing the batteries.

  • Page 66: Installing The Gear Vr App (Oculus) And Connecting The Controller

    Installing the Gear VR app (Oculus) and connecting the controller To use the Gear VR, you must manually install the Gear VR app (Oculus). Also, connect the controller to your mobile device before controlling the Gear VR. When you connect the mobile device to the Gear VR for the first time, the Gear VR app (Oculus) installation and controller connection will start automatically.
  • Page 67 Getting started Carefully install the compatible mobile device into the Gear VR compartment. If the mobile device is not connected properly, you are not prompted to continue with the set up process. At the voice prompt, separate the mobile device from the Gear On the Gear VR app (Oculus) installation screen, tap START.
  • Page 68 Home key to re-enter Bluetooth pairing mode. • The next time you connect the controller, you can connect it to your mobile device on your mobile device's setting screen or the Gear VR app (Oculus). (p. 70, p. 71)
  • Page 69 • If the screen appears tilted or skewed while using the Gear VR, take it off. Then, place the Gear VR on a flat surface with the lenses facing forwards and the Focus adjustment wheel at the top. Wait 5–7 seconds before using it again.
  • Page 70 The indicator light will flash blue three times. The way for connecting the controller can be changed depending on the Oculus service. Reconnect your mobile device to the Gear VR and wear the Gear VR. Control the Gear VR with the controller's keys and touchpad.
  • Page 71 You can connect the controller via Bluetooth only on mobile devices running Android 6.0 or higher. If you cannot connect the controller via Bluetooth, connect it with the Gear VR app (Oculus). Press and hold the controller's Home key to enter Bluetooth pairing mode.
  • Page 72 Bluetooth settings screen. The number differs depending on the controller. Reconnect your mobile device to the Gear VR and place the Gear VR on your head. Control the Gear VR with the controller's keys and touchpad.
  • Page 73 Getting started Disconnecting and reconnecting the controller If you remove the Gear VR from your head or the current connection ends, the controller enters sleep mode. Press the controller's trigger, touchpad, or any keys to deactivate sleep mode and re-enter Bluetooth pairing mode.
  • Page 74 Getting started Notices for using Bluetooth Bluetooth is a wireless technology standard that uses a 2.4 GHz frequency to connect to various devices over short distances. It can connect and exchange data with other Bluetooth enabled devices, such as mobile devices, computers, printers, and other digital home appliances, without connecting via cables.
  • Page 75 Getting started • Some devices, especially those that are not tested or approved by the Bluetooth SIG, may be incompatible with your controller. • Do not use the Bluetooth feature for illegal purposes (for example, pirating copies of files or illegally tapping communications for commercial purposes).

  • Page 76: Using The Charger

    Gear VR. Use only Samsung-approved USB cables and power adapters. Micro USB Micro USB charging cable Connector • When connected to the charger, it is the connected mobile device that is being charged and not the Gear VR.
  • Page 77 Basics • If using the Gear VR while the charger is connected to the Gear VR’s multipurpose jack: − It is powered by the charger and does not use the mobile device’s battery. When using content that has high power demands (more than 1.5A) while the charger is connected,...

  • Page 78: Using The Gear Vr's Touchpad

    Using the Gear VR's touchpad The touchpad is located under the Back key and the Home key. Use the touchpad to select items or to control the Gear VR. To avoid damaging the Gear VR's touchpad, do not tap it with anything sharp.
  • Page 79 Basics Tapping • Select an item. • While playing a video, show available features. Swiping forwards or backwards • Move to the next or previous item. • Scroll right or left on a list. • Reject an incoming call.

  • Page 80: Using The Controller

    Some apps may not support upwards or downwards swiping actions. Using the controller Control the Gear VR by moving your wrist in any direction to move the pointer and use the touchpad to select items. To avoid damaging the controller's touchpad, do not tap it with anything sharp.
  • Page 81 Basics Pressing • Select an item. • While playing a video, show available features. Moving • Move your wrist to move the pointer left, right, up, and down on the screen. Swiping to the left or right • Move to the next or previous item. •...
  • Page 82 Basics Swiping upwards or downwards • Scroll up or down on a webpage or list. • While viewing an image, enlarge or reduce its size. Some apps may not allow you to use the swipe function. Using the trigger • Press to select an item or use it as a trigger when playing certain games.

  • Page 83: Moving The Pointer Or The Screen

    Moving the pointer or the screen The Gear VR recognises your head movements. Move your head in any direction to move the pointer or the screen. To control the Gear VR with your controller, move your wrist in any direction to move the pointer. •...

  • Page 84: Selecting Items

    Using the Universal menu You can use the Universal menu to configure settings for the Gear VR and to capture the Gear VR's screen. Also, you can view the current time, remaining battery power, and more. Press and hold the Gear VR's Back key or the controller's Back key to open the Universal menu.
  • Page 85 Basics • : Return to the Oculus Home screen. • : View your Oculus account profile. • : View your friends list and check the friend request. You can invite your friends to the party room and play games and watch videos together.
  • Page 86 : Align the screen with the current direction you are facing. − : Choose the hand you will use the controller with. − : Set the Gear VR to turn pop-up messages on or off for incoming calls and notifications. − : Activate or deactivate the Bluetooth feature. −...

  • Page 87: Downloading Apps And Content

    Basics Downloading apps and content Launch the Oculus Store app and download various apps and content, such as 360-degree videos or photos. On the Oculus Home screen, select Store. Select the app or content you want to download. Then, select Free or Download, or select the button that shows the app’s price, then follow the on-screen instructions to confirm the download.

  • Page 88: Viewing Notifications Received On The Mobile Device

    Viewing notifications received on the mobile device Viewing caller information or rejecting calls If you receive a call while you are using the Gear VR, a pop-up message is displayed on the screen. You can view the caller information or reject the call.
  • Page 89 You can turn on pop-up messages in the Universal menu. (p. 86) Viewing notifications While using the Gear VR, you can check general notifications, such as events, messages, and alarms. When a notification comes in, a pop-up message is displayed on the screen. To see more notification details, check them on the mobile device after you separate it from the Gear VR.

  • Page 90: Viewing Content

    Oculus Home screen When you connect your mobile device to the Gear VR and wear the Gear VR, you will see the Oculus Home screen. On the Oculus Home screen, select an app or content to view various 2D, 3D, or 360-degree content.

  • Page 91: Oculus Home Screen

    Viewing content Friends list Recent apps Recommendations The Oculus Home screen may appear differently depending on the Oculus service. Library View the content and apps you downloaded from the Oculus Store. On the Oculus Home screen, select Library. Move to the content or app you want to use and select it.

  • Page 92: Oculus Home Screen

    Viewing content Oculus Video Enjoy various videos and 3D movies in your own virtual movie theatre. You can also view 360-degree videos, as well as 2D or 3D videos, saved in your mobile device. If the video app is not installed as a default app, download it from the Oculus Store.

  • Page 93: Oculus Home Screen

    Swipe backwards or forwards on the Gear VR's touchpad or swipe to the left or right on the controller's touchpad to rewind or fast-forward. While watching videos, tap the Gear VR's touchpad or press the controller's touchpad to use the following features: •...
  • Page 94 Move your head in any direction to view the images from various angles. Swipe backwards or forwards on the Gear VR's touchpad or swipe to the left or right on the controller's touchpad to view the previous or next image.

  • Page 95: Viewing Content On The Mobile Device

    360-degree content captured by 360 cameras, such as the Gear 360. If the Samsung Gallery app is not installed as a default app, download it from the Oculus Store. On the Oculus Home screen, select Library → Samsung Gallery.
  • Page 96 Viewing content Playing videos Select a video and play it. Swipe backwards or forwards on the Gear VR's touchpad or swipe to the left or right on the controller's touchpad to rewind or fast- forward. While watching videos, tap the Gear VR's touchpad or press the controller's touchpad to use the following features: •...
  • Page 97 Gear VR's touchpad or controller's touchpad. To reorient the screen in the direction you are currently facing, press the Gear VR's Back key or the controller's Back key twice. While viewing images, tap the Gear VR's touchpad or press the controller's touchpad to use the following features: •...

  • Page 98: Viewing Online Content

    : Select whether to display the background image of Samsung Gallery while viewing the image. Viewing online content Using the Samsung Internet app, you can view Internet content and videos on webpages. Download the Samsung Internet app from the Oculus Store and...
  • Page 99 Samsung Electronics. Trademarks • SAMSUNG and the SAMSUNG logo are registered trademarks of Samsung Electronics. ® • Bluetooth is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

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