Several reports cited that Google’s Cardboard would be the first VR that will not be powered by a smartphone, laptop or gaming console.
Originally reported by Wall Street Journal, the search engine giant is developing a VR headset that is entirely self-contained and does not rely on a smartphone, computer or a game console to work, simplifying the VR experience.
The device will hold all its screen, processing and motion-sensing tech within its casing, with forward-facing cameras to analyse the user’s surroundings and stop the user from walking off down the stairs with the headset on. Apparently, this decision is to allow the headset to go wire free and battery powered, rather than the mess of cables that causes Oculus to be a stationary experience.
As for the processing power, it is said that a San Mateo, California-based startup that specializes in machine vision Movidius will be responsible for it. It will use the cameras' feeds to track the motion of the user's head, according to Mashable. However, there is no exact release date for the headset yet. It may appear that could well prove to be a prototype that never sees the light outside of Google's X labs. Still, Google's expected to be showing off a new smartphone-powered viewer at its I/O conference in May, so either way Google's still keeping an eye on the VR race.
Google's attempt at something new shows how seriously the company is taking virtual reality. Previously, the tech giant has created its own VR division, putting vice president Clay Bavor as the leader of the new team. Bavor used to be in charge of Google apps as well, but the company cleared away all his other responsibilities to focus squarely on virtual reality.
The move would represent a fresh approach as a scrum of tech companies, including Facebook, Samsung and HTC, push to bring the promising technology to a mass audience. Facebook's $599 Oculus headset, available starting on March and it requires a PC. On the other hand, HTC and Sony are also tied to a PC or game console. Samsung's Gear VR sells at $99 and requires a Samsung Galaxy smartphone.
In addition, Google also plans to launch a redesigned version of Cardboard, BGR reported. The more advanced Cardboard version would use a new plastic viewer and will include computer chips and sensors.