Virtual Reality

I discovered so many amazing gadgets, including VR headsets, tech toys, audio tech, and more at Best Buy's Life and Tech show—come see what I tried!

On August 25th, you'll have the chance to experience some of the wildest immersive experiences at the Life & Tech Expo in Toronto when you see some of the Virtual Reality devices on display. Whether you side more toward 3D, 360 degree panoramic views or even Augmented Reality, you're in for a treat from the likes of Homido, Noon and Merge. VR is no longer a pipe dream of the past and it's more affordable than ever.

 The next transformational leap in gaming and entertainment is already here. Virtual Reality or VR is the idea of creating digital virtual spaces that we can immerse ourselves into, exploring digital worlds just like the way we would explore the real world. Homido has a smart and simple way to experience VR anywhere using something you’ve probably got on you right now: your smartphone. Want to learn more?

 The Merge VR is virtual reality with an openness that is easy to appreciate, yet with limitations that keep it well within the entry-level realm. Compatible with a number of different iOS and Android smartphones, this is a headset that doesn’t require much to get involved, nor any real past experience to enjoy some of what it has to offer.

The HTC Vive is one of the most anticipated virtual reality (VR) headsets to come to market this year, and the final build was on display and available to try out on the show floor at Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona. I can say that the unit should be ready for primetime when it officially launches in April.

Virtual reality is a real thing now. Yes, it has existed for some time, but the concept of immersing yourself in it in a portable way at home and on the go is one major difference. As is the quality of content. Samsung’s Gear VR is a headset with the imprint of Oculus, arguably the most popular company in the VR space today. It’s not the Oculus Rift, of course, but the Gear VR can open up some new worlds with the right smartphone inside.