But the atmosphere changed when LG Electronics, Samsung's smaller tech rival, unveiled its own VR device, the LG 360 VR, last month at the Mobile World Congress (MWC).

The LG 360 VR only weighs 118 grams, while the Gear VR weighs 318 g, even without a smartphone inserted.

As the new LG product comes with a separate liquid crystal display, the company paved the way for a lighter VR experience, although it needs to be connected to smartphones through a cable.

The two companies each claim to be superior.

"It is true that LG's VR device is smaller and lighter compared to the Gear VR," a high-ranking Samsung official said. "But LG's VR device fails to block enough light. It is not even wireless."

The Samsung official also said the resolution of the Gear VR hovers above that of LG, apparently as they are directly linked to high-end smartphone models that come with state-of-the-art displays.

Another official from LG Electronics, however, said its device maintains quality resolution even with the lighter body.

"When we talk about resolutions, we should mention about pixels per inch (ppi)," the LG official said. "The LG 360 VR boasts a resolution of 639 ppi."

Industry sources expect Samsung's device to hover slightly below 600.

Another source with knowledge of the internal matter said LG Electronics' finalized VR device to be released in the market will be different from the version showcased at the MWC.

"We can say that the finalized device is different, and the actual device will come with improved features in blocking light," the source said. "There will be improvements made between the showcase and the release."

LG Electronics declined to clarify the outlook but added the device will be available for purchase between end-March and early April.

"The scope of the users we are aiming for is different," the official from LG Electronics said. "We are targeting family-level consumers, making lighter VR devices that can be worn by children."

Industry watchers, however, expect the price tag of LG's VR device to be higher compared with the Gear VR, as it comes with separate LCDs. The Gear VR can be purchased locally for around $100.

The two Korean firms also showcased their respective editions of cameras at the MWC that can shoot photos and videos in 360 degrees, made to beef up the production of VR contents made by users. (Yonhap)