Google's VR headset details finally official at Google I/O 2016
- Steven Schroeder
- May 21, 2016
- 2 min read
Ever since the beginning of the year, Google has been rumored to come out with their own high-end VR headset that is similar to already popular headsets such as HTC's Vive and the Oculus Rift. That rumor has since been laid to rest, as Google has officially unveiled their plans for such headset at Google's I/O developer conference this week.
The design of the headset (pictured above) is just a reference design. Now, the headset will be based on Google's Daydream VR initiative. We have coverage of what that is, but it is essentially a mobile VR platform that is baked inside Android N. However because the headset is based off on Daydream, there is not a standalone headset. Instead, the user would have to use their own Android N powered device to use the headset, just like Google's Cardboard.
Even though the headset seems to be a more premium version of the Cardboard, there is supposedly a included remote that will go alongside it. There are volume buttons on the middle part of the remote while there is a circular pad towards the top. There is also basic motion sensing capabilities built-in as well. The remote probably won't be as powerful as the remotes that ship with the Oculus and the Vive, as they require external tracking systems instead of internal sensors. Assuringly, Google is saying that they are focusing on making the headset and the controller "comfortable and intuitive."
Just like the Oculus Rift and the Vive that can only be used with certain devices "made for" the experience, Google's headset will be the same way. Only certain devices that have special parts will be allowed to use the headset alongside Daydream. Those special parts could be high-res screens to deliver a high-quality mobile VR experience, as well as special sensors for better tracking. According to Google, they are working with several hardware partners on Daydream ready phones, which will be coming out later in the fall. Some of the hardware partners include HTC, ZTE, Huawei, Asus, Xiaomi, Alcatel, LG and Samsung. While Google is working with ARM, Qualcomm, MediaTek, and Imagination Technologies for the components. And for software, Google is partnering up with HBO, Ubisoft, and the NBA to create VR apps for Daydream.
There is still a lot of information that we don't know about the Daydream platform and the headset, but we should know more within the next couple of months. We will keep you updated when the time comes.
Via: | The Verge |
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Source: | No source was given |
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Image Credit: | The Verge |
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