Oculus Rift virtual reality headset will ship in early 2016

After months of rumours that the first commercial model of Facebook's VR headset would slip beyond 2015, company confirms the news

The first commercial model of Facebook's much anticipated Oculus Rift virtual reality headset will go on sale in the first quarter of 2016, the company confirmed today.

The announcement ends months of speculation that the release, which had been anticipated to happen by the end of 2015, would slip beyond Christmas. The most high profile device in the virtual reality market, Oculus Rift has been developed primarily for gaming but the technology is also being explored for occupational therapy, education and by film makers.

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"In the weeks ahead, we'll be revealing the details around hardware, software, input, and many of our unannounced made-for-VR games and experiences coming to the Rift. Next week, we'll share more of the technical specifications here on the Oculus blog."

Extremely excited to announce that the Oculus Rift will be shipping Q1 2016! We can't wait to get it in your hands. pic.twitter.com/TVquKTQJjx

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