Google Is Getting Serious With VR

New rumors are showing that Google is getting serious with VR and might be developing a new headset entirely to immerse users into virtual reality.

• Google Cardboard has sold around 5 million units
• Google is preparing a second virtual reality device
• It will have better lenses and sensors than the Cardboard
• The device will reportedly still be powered by smartphones, but better performing than Cardboard and with a wider range of devices than Samsung Gear VR

Google Cardboard has been only the first step. Apparently, the tech giant is not done with virtual reality at all, even though the very affordable device has seen to great success. For something so simple, it has sold 5 million units since its launch date, and it’s expected to continue thriving in 2016. Cardboard could be the first step toward bigger headsets, such as the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive that are coming this year.

However, most users might want to get a taste of virtual reality before knowing if they’re ready to invest hundreds if not thousands of dollars into the better performing headsets. Enter Google Cardboard. It could be the beginning for most VR users, which is why experts estimate it will still be the best sold VR device for 2016. The good news isn’t making Google wait and just bask in their success though.

Apparently, the company has another virtual reality device in store for their users. And, it will be much closer to the Samsung Gear VR than the Google Cardboard. That means a much better performing hardware along with software working directly in the headset, not just the smartphone.

There are limitations to the Cardboard, beginning from the fact that it relies on a dedicated virtual reality app. Samsung is aiming to change that with their Gear VR, but even their device will have some unwanted limitations. While it will likely be much better, there are only a handful of smartphones compatible with the headset. Perhaps Google could be the one to fill in the gaps.

According to rumors, Google is working on an Android VR operating system that will surely make their upcoming headset compatible with many more models. Allegedly, the VR headset will have “better sensors, lenses, and a more solid plastic casing”, as opposed to cardboard. It could widen the range of devices available and users who will take that first step into virtual reality.

The news indirectly confirms Google’s growing interest in the market that goes beyond simple apps. However, it remains a rumor until a true confirmation from the company will come forth. Some suggest that the tech titan will unveil more at the Google I/O on May 18^th-20^th this year. Perhaps the new piece of tech will be showed to the public and developers might get a hint at its capabilities.

The virtual reality market is getting hotter by the month it seems, and the major platforms have not even been released yet.

Image source: siggraph.org