[dt81]

Pretty simple... Will I really see a difference with the viewing experience coming from the first Gear VR to the newest?

[dt81]

Also, every thing I am reading and the pictures I am seeing show an S8 in the device, will the S8+ work as well?

[dt81]

And.....Is the 2017 Gear VR the same headset as the 2016? Just the S8 makes it the 2017?

[Blakey_nz]

To my knowledge the 2017 is supposedly an improvement to the 2016 as it has better sensors to reduce motion sickness.

By saying the 'first' gear VR is assuming you mean consumer version 1 (white) you will notice a difference in comfort and the FOV is bigger slightly but most say no.

The galaxy s8 range will not work in the consumer version 1 as it doesnt have USB C connectors like the 2016+ models and finally both S8s fit the 2016 but the S8+ is very snug and some say off center in the 2016 but not 2017.

Hope that helps

[dt81]

I'm trying to find the 2017 version and cant find it to order.. I do have thr innovator edition, I know the s8+ won't work on thst one but I wasn't sure if I would see a difference from going from the s6 edge to the s8+. Is there a release date for the 2017 or has it been released?

[Firegold21]

The newest iteration of the Gear VR, iirc, is more or less the same as the 2016 version, so unless you're upgrading to the S8, you should be fine with the 2016 version. It does have a significantly larger FOV. I used to think it was only a slight increase until I had to go back to the white version recently (my wife had my 2016 version in her car) and was taken aback by how much more limited my view was.

The S8+ should work as well; like @Blakey_nz said, it would fit better in the 2017.

If you're upgrading to the S8/S8+, I'd just take advantage of the current promo and get the 2017 Gear VR and controller bundle for free. If you're not eligible and want to save a little money, maybe pick up the 2016 version and the controller separately and see if it fits okay with your phone. If you're not worried about money, but instead just want the best experience, go ahead and get the headset and controller bundle for $129.

[dt81]

I do have the s8+ and would prefer to get the 2017 edition.. I checked on Verizon and it looked like it was the 2016..coukd you provide a link to the 2017 where I could purchase it please?

[Blakey_nz]

The 2017 version is the model that includes the Gear VR controller.
Ive read that best buy have them but I live in NZ so no links from me Im afraid.

[dt81]

Ohhh okay.. I saw on Verizon they had the 2016 version and the controller separate.. I assumed they were combining the two as a bundle. I'll order it from there then. Thanks