Virtual Reality – Google
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Victor Marquez
Virtual reality has gained popularity with big companies such as Oculus and Sony PlayStation launching their own VR headsets.
However, these are big-budget devices that might not be affordable to everyone. To make virtual reality accessible, Google decided to come up with Google VR.
If you’re unfamiliar with Google VR and its services, we wrote this post for you. However, if you’re new to VR, we suggest you read our guide on VR to get started.
Quick Summary
In this post, we will go over:
- What are Google VR services?
- What is Google Cardboard?
- What is Google Daydream?
So, without further ado, let’s get started.
What is Google VR Services?
Google VR services work to deliver VR functionality to run Daydream and Cardboard apps on your Android phone.
In simple terms, it is a service used for avoiding conflict between the regular functionality of your mobile and the VR experience.
These functions include:
- Displaying notifications while using VR
- Pairing Daydream with compatible headsets and controllers
- Opening and closing VR apps
So, how does Google VR make this possible?
To do so, it uses a split screen effect on your mobile device. This partitioned screen increases the immersion and you see things like you would view them in real-time.
It also helps avoid problems such as nausea and motion sickness. For more information on the issues of VR, we have a post that you can read here.
Similarly, when you change the position of your head to look around, the system tracks the movement by adopting the position of your eyes. This way, you can look around different virtual environments around you.
Your phone is responsible for tracking and sensing. Google VR makes sure that proper signals are being sent to your phone so your device can work according to the movements.
What is Google Cardboard?
If you want to try virtual reality without investing heavily in its consoles and accessories, you must give Google Cardboard a try.
It is a VR platform by Google that is built using low-cost components and a folded cardboard headset.
Not only is it affordable, but using it is also extremely easy to use. All you need to do is fix your phone in the cardboard compartment, turn on Google services, and you’re good to go.
We think it’s a great way to get an idea of VR before getting a more expensive headset.
If you’re curious about other VR displays, you can check out our separate post here.
What is Google Daydream?
Similar to Google Cardboard, Daydream is also a mobile VR platform by Google.
It was designed to shorten the entry of VR content to a phone through advanced technology.
Therefore, if you want a more smooth VR experience, we suggest you give daydream a try. While testing it out, it helped our team get comfortable with the simulated environment and reduced the motion blur.
You will also be pleased to know that you can start using it in a few simple steps.
All you need to do is connect the headset to your android phone, turn on google services and start using it.
For what games to play on VR, we have a separate post here that will answer all your questions.
Conclusion
VR is still a developing technology, but thanks to Google VR, you can try it without making a hole in your wallet.
Although it is low-cost and has fewer apps to try, it is a perfect way to give you an idea of VR and what you can expect from it.
If you’re interested in other VR headsets but can’t decide which one to get, our VR reviews are a perfect help.