Not too long ago it was rumored that Google was working on a new high-end standalone virtual reality headset which would compete against the likes of the Oculus Rift and the HTC Vive. Both of these headsets are now available in the market so Google’s competitor would have to make a pretty compelling case for people to consider putting money down for it. However, it appears that it may never come to that because Google has reportedly decided to give up on its standalone virtual reality headset.
The company introduced its Daydream virtual reality platform earlier this year. It revealed the reference design for new VR hardware that’s essentially an improvement on its Cardboard VR viewer, Google also said that it would make its own Daydream headset.
At the same time, the company was believed to have initiated a new projected in its X research lab. Around 50 employees were reportedly dedicated to building a standalone virtual reality headset that could compete against the Rift and the Vive. The team was also tasked with creating a new operating system for the headset which meant it wouldn’t be running on Android.
Google’s decision to give up on the standalone VR headset is believed to stem from its effort to get a handle on its ambitious projects. The company is said to be shifting more resources to mobile VR which involves building tools for developers to help them create apps, games, services, and experiences for virtual reality on smartphones.
Google has not yet commented on this report.
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