Recent virtual reality headsets with Day dream VR from Google can now provide people with a taste of affordable applications and better games. However, there are some challenges including the need to purchase a new Android Smartphone. Google has released more details about its plans to come up with VR headsets that are durable and more comfortable compared to the previous Cardboard headset. It is speculated that Google will manufacture the first headset and share guidelines on design with other manufacturers. Here are some of the challenges.
One must purchase a new Smartphone
Users will need to have a new high-end phone that can run the new N Android version. Current phones and cheap N phones do not have the necessary hardware. Users might need to spend more on a new model. Google has said that some manufactures including HTC, Samsung and Huawei are making compatible phones. It is just a matter of upgrading some old models by adding screens and some good sensors. Jan Dawson from Jackdaw Research says that, Daydream needs some more time to grow since these types of phones are yet in the market. In addition, Daydream cannot work with iPhones from Apple, but Google Cardboard headsets can.
Cheap but not cheapest
Even though Google has not announced any prices yet, it is expected that Daydream devices will be way much expensive compared to Cardboard. They are likely to cost $100 like the Gear VR from Samsung. Contrastingly, Google sells its Cardboard for less than $15 with many other brands such as the New York Times giving them away to customers as promotions. The difference in price gives users better materials as well as straps to keep their hands free. The new devices will still be cheaper compared to other VR systems such as the Vive and the Rift. These cost hundreds of dollars excluding power personal computers that have fast graphics.
Not full VR
Compared to this headset, high end devices offer more. For example, the Vive offers a full position tracking. As a user walks around, images on the Vive can change to reflect new perspectives. VR based Smartphone resembles 360 degree movies in 3D. Users are meant to watch their movies while sitting at one spot. Moving from one place to another can’t change the perspective. However, Google has managed to create headsets with advanced motion controllers compared to other Smartphone headsets. Gear VR and Cardboard don’t provide the much needed control beyond a mere push of a button. On the other hand, Google’s controller will now be in a position to sense motions. This means that users can swing their headsets like tennis rackets when playing tennis games in VR.
Compatibility
Introducing a new VR system in the market can confuse users and persuade some to just wait. This is because; no one is willing to be left still using an equivalent of VR Betamax video recorder while the rest of the world is using the VHS. In addition, these headsets are extremely cheap and users are not taking high financial risks. Ian Fogg from HIS says that, nothing can be compared to the Vive, the PlayStation VR from Sony or the Rift. While most people will purchase VR apps and games that will not be in a position to work with future competing systems, Ian Fogg says that these are cheap as well. They are priced just like phone apps and a line of few bucks.
Not the best apps
The moment devices from Google will be on the hands of users, there will arise more incentives for educators, individuals and companies to make VR apps. Google has confirmed that leading brands such as HBO, Netflix, Electronic Arts and the Wall Street Journal are now committed to Daydream. Additional videos and apps could encourage more people to purchase these headsets. The motion controllers are likely to bring better VR experiences.
However, users will require better devices that are more sophisticated in order to unlock VR’s true power. Jason Paul from Nvidia VR business says that, users might miss on the full immersive audio, fully stimulated environment and the rich graphics. However, he supports mobile headsets although casual users are not in a position to experience the sophisticated VR devices.
Conclusion
Daydream headsets are expected to be compatible with various phone brands. Analysts believe that, devices powered by Daydream could turn out to be excellent headsets. Google has promised that these VR headsets will be more durable and comfortable compared to their previous ultra-cheap Cardboard. The wireless motion controller will function like a pointer, a steering wheel or a fishing rod. This will allow better sophisticated VR experiences. Systems such as the Vive are expensive and this limits their appeal to tech enthusiasts and gamers.
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