Samsung’s HMD Odyssey headset to usher in Windows Mixed Reality Ultra tier for gaming

As well as announcing it had saved social VR start-up AltSpaceVR, Microsoft also announced that all Windows Mixed Reality headsets are now available for pre-order at its MR event last night – and that includes Samsung’s newly unveiled HMD Odyssey headset.

Available for $499.99 on November 6th in the US, the headset and bundled controllers are primarily being marketed as a gaming device on Samsung’s website, and appears alongside two Odyssey branded laptops that will support its Windows Mixed Reality Ultra tier of graphical capability.

According to Samsung, the Windows Mixed Reality and Windows Mixed Reality Ultra badges will highlight devices "that provide great Windows Mixed Reality experiences" and "a curated list of hero devices will be tested, qualified for getting the badges this Holiday."

As for the headset itself, it has two 3.5in AMOLED displays with a resolution of 1,440×1,600 with a maximum refresh rate of 90Hz, and its AKG-branded integrated headphones will support 360-degree spatial sound. It also has a built-in microphone for communicating with friends while gaming or interacting with Microsoft’s smart digital assistant Cortana, and a field of view of 110 degrees.

Alanna Cotton, VP and general manager of Samsung Electronics America, said:When we began designing and engineering the Samsung HMD Odyssey with Microsoft, there was only one goal in mind, create a high performing headset that’s easy to set up and can transport people to the incredible world of virtual reality.

"Powered with dual AMOLED displays which Samsung is known for, that result in vivid colours and the highest resolution in the industry, built-in spatial AKG headphones, inside-out tracking, built-in microphone, and quick, responsive motion controllers, the Samsung HMD Odyssey immerses users with a 110 field of view as they discover the new frontier of Windows Mixed Reality. Samsung is committed to working across platforms to build cutting-edge technology, and we’re excited to partner with Microsoft to shape the future of virtual reality. But most of all, we can’t wait for you to take the Samsung HMD Odyssey out for a spin, and see it for yourself.”

Over 20,000 compatible apps will be available in the Microsoft Store when the Samsung HMD Odyssey launches, with VR titles including Space Pirate Trainer, Superhot, Arizona Sunshine, Minecraft, Fantastic Contraption and more to follow shortly thanks to Microsoft’s Universal Windows Platform. On October 17th, 343 Industries’ Halo experience will also be available to try on other WMR headsets from Acer, Dell, HP and Lenovo.