Head-mounted displays (HMDs) such as Google Cardboard helped to pave the way for more expensive virtual reality (VR) devices, by providing a cheap introduction to the technology. From that cardboard open source design numerous variations appeared, with one of the most popular being the purple foam headset, Merge VR. The headset has been available across the US, Canada and UK for awhile now, and today the company has expanded that reach even further.
Merge is focused on aligning with top-tier retailers and global partners, as such the headset is now sold in retail outlets in France, Germany, Japan, Singapore, Spain and India. Spain’s El Corte Ingles that will carry the headset in more than 200 of its retail stores.
“With virtual reality topping holiday gift lists this season, growing demand has created new opportunities to share our universal, easy-to-use Merge VR Goggles,” said Merge EVP Dan Worden. “We get inquiries every day from people all over the world who want to buy the goggles, so it’s really exciting to announce that they’re now available in more countries, with more coming soon.”
Recently Merge VR announced it had passed more than 20 rigorous tests for the US, Canada, European markets for approved use by children 10 and over. And it revealed a new prototype controller called ‘Moonshot’ earlier this month. This is a universal motion controller for mobile VR, compatible with existing iOS and Android devices, along with Unity and Web VR.
VRFocus will continue its coverage of Merge VR, reporting back with any further announcements.