Google’s Daydream View headset is set to begin shipping soon, but it’s just one part of Google’s new virtual reality strategy. In order to work, the headset and companion wireless controller need to be paired with a Daydream-compatible smartphone. And right now that pretty much means the Google Pixel and Pixel XL, with a few other devices set to join Google’s phone soon.

Today Google is rolling out a few software updates to help make sure its Pixel phones will be able to take advantage of Daydream headsets when the first units ship to customers later this week.

daydream-view-vr

First up, Google has released an updated version of Google VR Services for Android. This is basically a framework that’s used to allow Daydream apps to work on Android phones, although it also includes features for Google Cardboard… which is why the VR Services update is available for some old phones like the Google Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P and not just the Google Pixel phones.

The latest version of Google VR Services includes support for pairing a Daydream headset and controller with a Daydream-capable smartphone, and support for displaying notifications when you’re in VR mode.

It also looks like Google is getting ready to push a software updated version of Android with Daydream enhancements. Verizon has posted notifications for a software updates for the Pixel and Pixel XL which is said to bring “Daydream View performance” improvements, among other things.

According to the Google Store, Daydream View headset purchased from Google should ship on November 10th.

While Google’s headset is the first designed for the company’s new VR platform, we may see third-party solutions in the future, since Google has provided specifications that should allow anyone to build a Daydream-compatible device.

via Droid Life and /r/Android

 

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