LG Electronics later this month will offer a free virtual reality headset for new buyers of its flagship phone, the LG G3.

Called the VR for G3, the plastic headset uses the G3 as the screen. It enables owners to use the G3 for VR apps and games downloaded from Google Play store. The G3 with its large 5.5 inch display seems admirably suited as a VR device.

Like Us on Facebook

It's got a resolution of 2560 x 1440 (534 ppi). The headset will place the G3 close to the eyes of the user to create the VR effect.

Analysts said the fact the LG G3 is being given away free is bound to score points against LG rival Samsung Electronics. Samsung in December released the Samsung's Gear VR that uses the Galaxy Note 4 as its display. But Samsung's Gear VR sells for $310 on Amazon and goes for several hundred dollars in other retailers.

VR for G3 will roll out this month in a number of markets that have not been revealed as of yet. Buyers of the LG G3 can also download a free VR game, "Robobliteration," using the in-box code.

LG has teamed up with Google to develop the headset, which is based on Google's Cardboard device. Virtual reality seeks to provide an immersive experience for gaming or other applications.

Chris Yie, an LG marketing executive, said the introduction of the VR for G3 is just the beginning of the virtual reality movement, which until recently was expensive and inaccessible to everyday consumers.

LG is looking for ways to boost its lagging smartphone sales and is using the VR for G3 to do just that. The launch of the VR for G3 has revealed the alliances shaping-up for the coming market wars in VR and augmented reality.

LG is partnering with Google while Samsung and Facebook are allies. Facebook owns VR-goggle maker Oculus. Microsoft remains on its own.