A:Answer From www.roadtovr.com (The black one was is the newer 2016 model):
For one, the lenses are noticeably wider in the new model, translating to an improved 101 degree field of view compared to 96 degrees of prior models. While not a huge upgrade, Ritchie says the increase is definitely noticeable. Also on the vision front, the perplexing white inside (around the lenses) of the old model has been replaced with black. Formerly with the white, it was easy to notice in your peripheral vision due to increased light reflection, only serving to highlight the tight field of view of the headset. The black backing of the new model is less distracting and compounds with the improved field of view. Ritchie also shows how the USB-C and MicroUSB adapters work to make the headset compatible with the widest range of Samsung phones yet: the Note 5, S6 Edge+, S6, S6 Edge, S7, S7 Edge, and Note 7. Just snap the USB-C tip off and slap on the included MicroUSB adapter depending upon your phone. For the phones of varying sizes, you can slide the connector forward or backward for a secure fit. Samsung also thoughtfully included a USB-C to MicroUSB adapter for the charging port on the bottom of the headset in case you need to keep your phone juiced for extended VR sessions. See our full list of Gear VR phone compatibility for all Gear VR models.
http://www.roadtovr.com/hands-on-new-and-improved-2016-samsung-gear-vr-comparison-2015/
