LG to bring virtual reality smartphone "VR for G3" in Australia

LG and Google are jointly working on bringing LG's own reality experience to Australia - known as the VR for G3.

LG had announced earlier the global launch of its VR for G3 virtual reality headset, and had confirmed the device would be available in Australia, but quantities would be "limited".

G3 smartphone users would get to test it out as early as March.

The G3 smartphone is held in the plastic headset which transfors the device into a virtual reality display, on the lines of the Google Cardboard.

Users can download VR-compatible apps and games from the Google Play store, play them on their G3 and "transport themselves to another world" according to LG.

"Commencing in March 2015, when the VR for G3 units become available in Australia, LG will distribute a quantity of units to existing owners of the LG G3 so they can experience the world of virtual reality first hand," LG said in a statement.

"In addition selected new purchasers of the LG G3 handset will receive a bonus VR headset as a gift when they make a purchase through selected partners. Retail offer details will be announced shortly."

Meanwhile, itwire.com reported the LG headset also included a ring magnet on the side which worked with the magnetic gyroscope sensor that was already built into the G3 and allowed users to select applications and scroll through menus without touching the display.

LG said its VR for G3 had a 'unique design that not only leverages the G3's signature Rear Key' but also took full advantage of the smartphone's 1W speaker with Boost AMP.

According to LG 'the visuals will drag you into a virtual world the accompanying sound will aid to completely immerse you in the roller coaster or Wild West Shootout, or whatever scenario you choose from the host of VR apps on Google Play'.

According to commentators, LG, Google, Samsung, Oculus and to others were also competing with Microsoft's yet to be released HoloLens headset, but until HoloLens arrived, at a price that was still undetermined, LG and Samsung would offer the most affordable units made from plastic rather than cardboard.