Google brings some interesting updates to its Google Cardboard following its growing popularity with the tech crowd. Since its launch at Google's I/O Conference back in June, the headset now has a record-breaking shipment of 500,000 units through several third-party vendors. With the project's success, the company is now looking into doubling down on the headset.
The first thing that was considered is creating its own corner of the Play Store. Google Cardboard now has a selection of Cardboard-compatible apps and games. Perhaps the most versatile app that is available now is Google's own Cardboard which allows users to experience virtual reality through Google Earth and YouTube.
Google wants to get as much market share as possible by selling more Google Cardboards. It also wanted to add more apps and games for the platform through its new Cardboard SDK for Android and Unity.
"Today we're introducing Cardboard SDKs for Android and Unity," said Google in blog post. With both Android and Unity support, you can use the tools you already know and love."
Apart from the Cardboard's budget-friendly price tag of $20 to $25, Google also designed it with customizing options for users. As the company plans to expand its Cardboard headset venture, it has decided to provide more personalization updates that will help users to customize their virtual reality headsets that will fit their needs.
"We also want to help you tailor the viewing experience to its unique optical layout. So early next year we'll be adding a viewer calibration tool to the Cardboard SDK. You'll be able to define your viewer's base and focal length, for example, then have every Cardboard app adjust accordingly."
Currently, there are 24 apps at the Google Play store that work with Google Cardboard. To be able to use the apps and start enjoying virtual reality in an inexpensive way, users must pair the Cardboard with a compatible Android smartphone, something that features a 5-inch HD display.
While the concept of virtual reality is still something new, car companies and rock artists are finding some exciting uses for the project.
In November, Volvo used the Cardboard headsets at the LA Auto Show in order to enable visitors to perform a virtual test drive of its latest car models.
Recently, Jack White and Paul McCartney have launched immersive music apps that are meant solely for the headset.
As part of the company's expansion, Google also announced that the company is now looking to hire people who share their passion on VR.
