Camera boost, virtual reality in new Samsung, LG gadgets

Facebook is now investing in social virtual reality experiences, beginning with the creation of its own Social VR team.

“I want to capture the whole scene, so I hope that we can take a 360 video; that way, even if my parents and family aren’t there to experience it in person, they can feel like they’re right there with us”, he said.

In addition to the blog post, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced the developments at a surprise appearance at Samsung’s Mobile World Congress event in Barcelona.

Justin Denison, Senior VP Product and Strategy, pointed out to how the new devices will come with what could be termed as the “first Dual Pixel camera on a smartphone”, delivering brighter and sharper images in low light. “VR is going to be the most social platform”, he said. Although the work in VR is still in an early stage and there are a lot of hardware and software challenges that Facebook still needs to solve. The Galaxy S7 Edge has a 5.5-inch screen – the same size as the iPhone 6 Plus.

One big incentive for purchasing the new phones?

Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge deliver fast wired and wireless charging technology.

Facebook already sells its Gear VR set for $99 but will be bundled for free with Samsung’s new flagship smartphone, the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge.

Zuckerberg was speaking at a Samsung event held to launch two new smartphones and where the South Korean company also unveiled a new 360-degree still and video camera called the Gear 360. Zuckerberg presented at Samsung’s MWC event that has been streamed live in 360 virtual reality video. Samsung’s Edge is getting bigger, at 5.5 inches, but because the sides curve like a waterfall, the phone won’t be much wider.

The Enterprise Device Program is created to also give businesses greater peace of mind when it comes to adopting the Samsung Galaxy S7 and GS7 edge. They’ll will work closely with Oculus and other teams at Facebook to build the foundation for tomorrow’s social VR experiences on all platforms.

On Sunday, the company showed off its first-ever consumer camera capable of taking 360-degree photos and videos, aptly named the Gear 360.

LG is also making a 360-degree camera and a spherical robot camera that resembles the BB-8 droid in the new Star Wars movie. You’ll not only be able to control all elements of the camera but also preview the content in real time while recording.

Facebook announced that dynamic streaming technology will be enabled for 360 video on the Gear VR. “We’re excited to bring this to Gear VR in the next few weeks”, he explained.