From time to time, Google comes up with some pretty crazy ideas and products. Some of them work out, some of them don’t, but it looks like Google might have a hit on their hands with the Google Cardboard. The “device”, as per Google, has managed to ship over 500,000 units since its launch, which we have to say is mighty impressive.
Of course given that it is relatively cheap to make and own, the rapid adoption of Google Cardboard hardly comes as a surprise. To that extent, Google has decided to release a new Cardboard SDK for both Android and Unity, thus making it easier for developers to design apps specifically for Cardboard.
The SDK will also take into account the more complex things, such as head-tracking, lens distortion, and side-by-side rendering. According to Google, “The SDKs simplify common VR development tasks so you can focus on your awesome, immersive app. And with both Android and Unity support, you can use the tools you already know and love.”
Google Cardboard, for those unfamiliar, is Google’s attempts at making a virtual reality headset. However instead of fiddling around with electronics, Google decided to make the frame from cardboard, thus allowing users to insert their own smartphone to act as the headset’s display. As it stands there are a handful of manufacturers of Cardboard including DODOcase, I Am Cardboard, Knoxlabs, and Unofficial Cardboard. Alternatively users can go ahead and try and make their own case by following the instructions set out by Google.
Filed in . Read more about Cardboard, Google and Virtual Reality (VR).