Last year, Mattel first relaunched the View-Master as a Google Cardboard viewer. They’ve just announced today a second generation viewer with upgraded hardware at the New York Toy Fair. Additionally, they’re releasing more games in addition to virtual reality experiences.
In addition to working on a Gear VR-like headset which would require a smartphone, Google is also reportedly working on a standalone virtual reality headset as well. According to a Wall Street Journal report, the headset would not require a smartphone or computer and might be released as soon as this year.
In a blog post, Clay Bavor, the recently anointed VP of Google’s new virtual reality division, announced that there are now over five million units of Cardboard and over 1000 Cardboard apps in Google Play. The numbers come as recent reports show Google getting into VR in a serious way, including possibly building their own headset.
Yesterday a report came out claiming that Google is forming their own virtual reality division to compete with the likes of Oculus. Perhaps coincidentally, today Google is updating its Cardboard platform with audio features found on more expensive VR headsets. One new feature, the addition of spatial audio, will allow developers to create more engrossing virtual worlds.
As detailed in a report by Re/Code, Google is doubling down on virtual reality. Clay Bavor, the long time VP of Gmail and Drive, is being put in charge of a newly created VR division. Enterprise chief Diane Greene will be absorbing his previous responsibilities.
Legendary Pictures is debuting its new Warcraft movie today, slated for a June 2016 theatrical release at San Diego Comic-Con. The company has partnered with Google to create a new app with virtual reality experiences based on the upcoming film as well as Crimson Peak, in theaters in October, and 2013’s Pacific Rim. To make sure people give it a spin and get excited for the new films, Legendary will also be giving out 50,000 branded Google Cardboard units (pictured above) throughout the expo this week.