Google added multiple features to its Daydream platform

May 19, 2017 09:07 GMT  ·  By

During Google’s I/O 2017 keynote, VR and AR were two of the main highlights and Google announced some new features that could arrive soon. Now, Google has detailed the new tools that will arrive to Daydream 2.0.

Google first introduced Daydream during last year’s Google I/O conference and the platform was constantly updated with new features, but the list of supported smartphones isn’t that long, including the Google Pixel devices and soon welcoming the Samsung Galaxy S8/S8+ and LG G6.

The update to Daydream 2.0 carries the name Euphrates and makes the VR world easier to explore for users. One of the main highlights is Chrome VR, which will allow Daydream explorers to navigate the web using their headsets. The feature is expected to arrive this summer, but until then, Google says that users can explore more than 150 apps inside the platform.

Sharing options are coming to Google Daydream 2.0

Google also intends to add sharing options to Daydream VR and allow users to capture virtual moments and send to friends on various social networks. The cast option will also be added, so that users can mirror the VR screen on a television and others can see what they’re seeing. Another new feature is a VR space for YouTube, so users can connect with friends and watch various videos.

Some improvements for developers have also been announced, including Instant Preview for making various changes in an environment and then experience them in a matter of seconds, rather than waiting minutes for the rendering session to complete.

The tech giant also announced the release of an experimental build of Chromium with AR API. Moreover, Google will be launching a standalone VR headset soon, one that uses WorldSense, a technology derived from Tango. The positional tracking technology will help the headset detect user movements, just like Tango-enabled devices. The Asus ZenFone AR can track motion and understand depth and space. The standalone VR headset, which won’t require a smartphone to work, will be able to deliver high processing power and is expected to arrive later this year.

Daydream 2.0
Daydream 2.0

Google Daydream 2.0 (2 Images)

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