Google's ambitions in the virtual reality space has been tempered. It offers the Google Cardboard, which is seemingly great, but in from of advanced head gear from Facebook owned Oculus and Microsoft, it is limited. According to a report by the Financial Times, that's set to change as Google is expected to release a new version of the Cardboard, which again uses Android from a smartphone, but will come with more sensors and a plastic casing. The device is said to be similar to the Samsung Gear VR, which it developed in tandem with Oculus.
As of now the Google Cardboard has limited compatibility with smartphones, but the new version of the Cardboard will see broad compatibility with Android smartphones.
Like the previous Cardboard, an Android smartphone would be needed as it will power the device, providing the display and the processing power. Google is also working on a solution to enhance the VR experience, but incorporating software into Android which could improve things.
VR on Android using the Cardboard causes nausea to its users. There are latency issues, as actions don't happen instantly. Google is working on software for Android to fix these problems, which will in turn increase longevity of the usage.
Clay Bavor, who previously handled both Google's apps and VR initiatives is now the full time head of Cardboard, so the Mountain View based company is clearly showing a greater interest in virtual reality. Google CEO, Sundar Pichai, too described the Cardboard as the first step in its VR efforts.
The Cardboard was a shot in the dark and has turned out to be a sleeper success for Google as it has shipped more than 5 million units. Google has also invested in virtual reality startup called Magic Leap.
It is likely that Google could showoff a turn-key or flagship VR device at its developer conference in May. Chances are Google could also showcase platform updates to Android, which would bolster its VR ambitions.
Compared to Microsoft and Facebook, Google's ambitions seem tempered. Microsoft will be shipping Hololens devices to developers this year and Facebook owned Oculus is already shipping it advanced VR headsets. Sony is also expected to launch its PlayStation VR this year, which will have a prime focus on gaming.
No comments:
Post a Comment