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Xiaomi VR specs news 2016: Headset announced; to come with zippers and bold designs

Promotional image for Xiaomi's new virtual headset, the Mi VR Play (featured in the middle) | Facebook/xiaomichina

Chinese electronics company Xiaomi has expanded their already wide range of products by venturing into the virtual reality world. Recently, the Beijing-based company announced its first ever virtual reality (VR) headset which is dubbed as the Mi VR Play.

According to a report, the Xiaomi VR headset is compatible with any phone with a screen between 4.7 and 5.7 inches in size. It's also deemed as an entry-level VR headset purposefully made to bring the VR experience to a much wider audience in China with a reasonable price tag.

The release date for the device hasn't been announced, but reports suggest that the upcoming device will be priced at only $99 or around Rs 6,500. It will reportedly be set with Google's Daydream VR platform, which will come along with the Android 7.0 Nougat.

It's also noted that the feature which will make the VR headset unique from the other brands is its design. The device is equipped with a two-way zipper where the smartphones will be secured in place. The dual front openings are designed for easier adjustment of the handset.

Aside from that, the company is said to release the Play with a selection of bold prints and colors using a Lycra fabric, which Xiaomi claims as skin-friendly and comfortable to wear on.

Available designs include a leopard print, floral, denim, camo and even a Van Gogh starry night design. Although it's not anything of a major innovation, Xiaomi is eyeing to bring in some aesthetic changes in the market.

The Mi VR Play measures 201 mm in length, 91 mm in height, and 107 mm in width. Weighing 208.7 grams, the device works with the Mi VR companion app with 3D movies, 2D, and gaming applications.

As of now, the device is very limited and is available only to selected beta testers for only $0.15. Xiaomi is planning to produce more in the future but it's unknown when that might be.