Samsung to Release New Odyssey Headset... Patent Registered for Mixed Reality Device

January New Mixed Reality Headset and Controller Patent Acquired
Trademark Registration of 'Galaxy Space' in October Last Year

[Asia Economy Reporter Han Jinju] Samsung Electronics has registered a patent related to mixed reality (MR) headsets. It is anticipated that the release of a new Odyssey headset is imminent.

According to IT media LetsGoDigital on the 11th (local time), Samsung Electronics registered a patent for a mixed reality headset and controller with the Hague International Design System, an affiliate of WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization), on the 8th.

Mixed reality refers to a concept that combines virtual reality and augmented reality, providing a smart environment where reality and virtual elements are naturally connected, rather than a fully virtual reality (VR).

The MR headset patented by Samsung Electronics features a design worn on the head, reminiscent of a bee's face. It consists of a headband that wraps around the head and headsets that touch both ears as a single unit. The controller integrates a handle-type design with a touchpad, joystick, and buttons.

Samsung Electronics released the mixed reality headset 'Samsung HMD Odyssey' in collaboration with Microsoft in 2017. It is undecided whether Samsung will release a new Odyssey headset, and the name may also change. In October last year, Samsung registered the trademark 'Galaxy Space' with the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), explaining that it could be used for virtual reality headsets, smartphone chargers, tablet PCs, smartwatches, and more.

It is interpreted that Samsung Electronics intends to reorganize its lineup based on mixed reality instead of continuing mobile VR services. Samsung discontinued support for Oculus apps on Gear VR in April last year and announced the termination of the VR platform 'Samsung XR' service starting in September. Samsung Electronics launched the mobile VR headset 'Gear VR' in collaboration with VR specialist Oculus in November 2014. Samsung released renewed versions of Gear VR annually from 2015 to 2019, but the Galaxy S10 series in 2019 was the last to support Gear VR, and smartphones released afterward did not support Gear VR.