OnePlus is preparing to launch its flaghip device, the OnePlus 3, and it wants the launch to be memorable.
For this, the OEM and AntVR teamed up and crafted 30,000 customized OnePlus Loop VR headsets, which were available to customers on a on a first-come, first-served basis.
The marketing move was so popular that the devices ran out of stock in no time.
This is not the first time the company pulled a marketing gimmick before launching a new handset. In 2015, before the OnePlus 2 rolled out, fans got 30,000 VR viewers similar to the Google Cardboard so they could watch the event in virtual reality.
It should be noted that investment in the VR headset makes the cardboard viewer pale in comparison. However, the company is sure that these headsets will become collectors' items and be even more valuable in time.
OnePlus has been a spearhead in the mobile tech with its affordable yet powerful Android smartphones, and the OnePlus 2 from last year hit the mark in most reviews.
Those who hurried and got the Loop VR headset will be able to enjoy the OnePlus 3 launch in virtual reality.
The headsets support most handsets with 5-inch to 6-inch screens. Simply slide your phone in the Loop VR headset and relax. What is more, the design of the headset took into account people wearing glasses, so if you do, Loop VR will be just the thing for you. The lens type is orthoscopic and the field of view is of 100 degrees.
Carl Pei, one of OnePlus' cofounders, makes clear that the VR is barely starting to catch lift and the industry is merely scratching the surface.
He mentions that a fan of the company inspired OnePlus to create simulations of the company's headquarters, which the company imagined to be moved to space. Dubbed The Loop, the imaginary space station allows OnePlus enthusiasts to visit it and to engage in "the world's first global shopping experience in VR."
The company did not announce an official release date for the OnePlus 3, but the manufacturer might be the first to go all in on the virtual releases. At the MWC in Barcelona this year, Samsung broadcasted the Galaxy flagship launch via VR, but the OEM also had a traditional event in South Korea. OnePlus aims to make the OnePlus 3's rollout the first of its kind by keeping it all in virtual reality. For one thing, the marketing budgets of the two companies are not even in the same ballpark, but the Chinese OEM also wants to underline its commitment to future-proof tech.
Keep in mind that the Loop VR headset is nowhere near the products of established companies such as Oculus, HTC, Sony or Samsung. The Loop VR headset will not hit the shelves, as its purpose is restricted to creating hype before the launch of OnePlus 3.
The company hopes that the 30,000 users who will watch the new flagship's launch in VR will set an upward trend for the company and set the route for more VR experiences in the future.
OnePlus says the devices will start shipping on June 6.
