Xiaomi is enterimg a new market with the announcement of its first virtual reality headset, called Mi VR. The headset, which relies on a smartphone to work, features a case made of Lycra, in order to provide "long-lasting comfort" to the wearer. The smartphone is held with by a zippered cover, which gives users a certain degree of flexibility when it comes to the size of the device that they want to use with Mi VR.

Xiaomi says that Mi VR can used with smartphones with a 4-inch to 5.7-inch display. The cover that holds the smartphone also features two large openings, to prevent it from overheating.

The headset is only targeting the Chinese market at this stage, so content is likely to be adapted for the company's local market.

Xiaomi has made the headset available to beta testers in China. Those who are accepted to sample the product will be offered the option to purchase it for around 15 cents (CNY1).