LG Partners Google to Launch Free VR for G3 Headset

LG and Google have teamed up to offer a free virtual reality experience to new LG G3 owners. Dubbed VR for G3, the wearable announced by LG is based on Google's 'Cardboard' VR headset design and will come bundled with new purchases of the smartphone in select regions this month.

LG says users can club the headset and G3 smartphone together and experience several VR apps on Google Play. G3 buyers can also download the VR game "Robobliteration" using the in-box code.

To recall, Google introduced Cardboard, an affordable VR headset in June last year during Google I/O 2014. At the event, Google distributed the Cardboard headset to all I/O attendees and also posted DIY instructions for people to make their own version of the headset using cardboard, lenses, magnets, velcro, a rubber band, and (optionally) an NFC tag.

LG's new VR for G3 features a Rear Key layout design based on the G3's design. The VR headset and smartphone can also be used with the Bluetooth headset LG Tone Infinim, which launched in November last year. Additionally, scrolling through apps on the smartphone is possible without touching the display, using the scrollable neodymium ring magnet on the side of the VR for G3 that works with the handset's gyroscope sensor.

"While still in its infancy, this is just the beginning of the virtual reality movement which until recently was expensive and inaccessible to everyday consumers," said Chris Yie, Vice President and Head of Marketing Communications at the LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company during the launch. "By leveraging Google Cardboard, not only are regular consumers able to participate in the VR experience, we'll be able to introduce this technology to future developers who may one day show us how VR can be used to improve our lives."

"With Google Cardboard, we wanted to create more immersive and delightful experiences for anyone on their mobile devices," said Andrew Nartker, Product Manager for Google Cardboard. "We are excited about VR for G3, and the rich ecosystem of developers and manufacturers who are innovating with Google Cardboard and making VR more easily accessible."

With the VR for G3 giveaway, LG is targeting its rival Samsung, which last year launched the expensive Samsung Gear VR, a headset that works only with the flagship Galaxy Note 4 phablet. The promotional offer may also serve to revive LG G3 sales or can be a clever tactic by LG to clear the stock before the LG G4 comes out.