Fans would be pleased to know that the Google Daydream View VR and the Google Chromecast Ultra are now available to order. The former is being sold by Verizon while the media streaming device is being exclusively offered via Google's store.
News of the official public release is a bit surprising given the fact Google announced last Oct. 4 that the Chromecast Ultra and Daydream View VR will only hit stores in November. To be fair, the ordered devices themselves should reach consumers next month.
Google lists that the Chromecast has a two- to three-week delivery window while Verizon is more explicit with its Nov. 16 shipping date.
The carrier has perfectly timed the VR headset's release because its delivery schedule coincides with the rollout of smartphones that meet the device's requirements for high-resolution display and high-fidelity sensors. Google's Pixel, for example has already began shipping as early as Oct. 19 for preorders made on Oct. 4.
It is important to note that Google has set a high standard for Daydream VR compatibility. For example, while the Samsung Galaxy S7 satisfies most of the requirements, it is not outfitted with the required sensors. This is also the same in the case of Google's Nexus 6P.
These devices are deemed compatible but they are just not up to snuff. The offshoot is that a Daydream VR content will still be playable but the games SDK could either disable certain features or simply revert to Cardboard VR mode.
At this point, the only other reported phones that are fully Daydream-ready include the ZTE Axon 7 and the Asus Zenfone 3 Deluxe. These handsets indicate that minimum spec requirements include Snapdragon 820, a QHD display and at least 4 GB of RAM.
Now, those interested to get the Chromecast Ultra will only be able to snag one this early at Google's store. Other retailers presently list the device in the Coming Soon category. This particular device has proven interesting for a wide number of consumers because it now supports 4K video with HDR output.
The device is also considered a significant upgrade to its predecessor because of the dedicated ethernet port that allows for faster speed, eliminating the occasional snags and buffers to content streaming.
The Chromecast Ultra currently retails for $69 at Google's store. The Google Daydream View VR, on the other hand, is being sold at Verizon for $80, the same price at Google's store. For those buying the Pixel or Pixel XL smartphone, the VR gear is free while stocks last.
