Strategy Analytics: VR uptake in the UK to be a ‘slow burn’

David MacQueen

Virtual reality uptake in the UK will be a “slow burn” with just 3% of Britons to own a VR headset this year, according to Strategy Analytics.

The research firm said that 92% of headset sales will be for “basic smartphone models” such as Google Cardboard and Samsung Gear, which essentially act as cradles for mobile phones.

VR headsets that attach to games consoles – namely the PlayStation VR, which launches globally today – will account for 7% of sales, while just 1% are expected to be for top-end, PC-tethered VR headsets like the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive.

Strategy Analytics said that around two million Britons will own a VR headset by the end of the year and will generate £62 million worth of sales.

“Despite the rush of companies eager to jump in, the reality is that VR take-up among the British public will be a slow burn and dominated by low-cost headsets,” said David MacQueen from Strategy Analytics’ global wireless practice.

“The VR headset market will be much like the car market – most owning the likes of Vauxhalls and Fords, a handful owning Porsches and the odd few splashing out on a Ferrari.”