Looking for a virtual reality (VR) experience that is smartphone friendly, but does not burn a hole in your wallet? The Google Cardboard VR viewer is the product that you've been looking for.
For those in Europe and Canada who are thinking that it is only available in the U.S., you're in luck, as Google has expanded its reach and made available the VR viewer (made from cardboard) in four more countries: the UK, Canada, Germany and France.
"Experience virtual reality with Cardboard, now at the +Google Store in the US, Canada, UK, Germany, and France," noted Google.
The launch of the Google Cardboard VR in these countries comes nearly two months after the company began selling the cost-effective option in the U.S.
Those in the UK, France, Canada or Germany can now purchase the Google Cardboard VR directly from the Google Store. However, only the OG Cardboard version is up for sale and not the retro-looking Mattel View-Master Starter Kit version or the sleek-looking C1 Glass viewer, which is foldable.
The pricing of the headset is slightly more expensive when compared to the U.S. In the UK, the single pack of the Google Cardboard VR will set consumers back by £15, which is equivalent to about $21. By comparison, the same headset costs only $15 in the U.S. and a two-pack is $25.
Alternately, to sweeten the deal, consumers in the UK can purchase the two-pack, which will cost £25 (approximately $36). It means that each headset is $18 effectively.
In Canada, the single pack of the Google Cardboard VR is retailing for CAD 20 (approximately $15), whereas the two-pack option will cost buyers CAD 35 (approximately $27).
VR aficionados in Germany and France can pick up the single pack of the Google Cardboard VR for 20 euros (approximately $23) or opt for the dual pack, which costs 30 euros (approximately $34).
While the pricing may seem expensive for something made out of plastic lenses and cardboard alone, it is undoubtedly an affordable option for those looking to experience VR and unwilling to shell out a lot of money for the HTC Vive or Oculus Rift.
Google Cardboard VR is compatible with most Android- or iOS-powered smartphones that have a screen size between 4 and 6 inches. The interactive click button on the headset also works with all compatible handsets.
To purchase the Google Cardboard VR, head to the Google Store online. Hopefully, Google will expand the reach of the Cardboard to more countries and introduce the other varieties as well, not limiting them to the U.S. alone.
