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Google’s standalone VR headsets don’t even need smartphones

Updated May 17th, 2017 3:00PM EDT
Google Standalone VR Headset
Image: YouTube

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Google on Wednesday revealed what’s next on its agenda for virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). The most exciting announcement concerns the VR headset, as Google plans to launch standalone devices that don’t even require a smartphone to further improve the user’s VR experience.

Google did not reveal that many details about its next Daydream headsets, but the company did say some of the hottest Android devices of this year, including the Galaxy S8 and the next LG flagship handset that’s launching in the second half of the year, will be Daydream ready.

However, those users who don’t want to insert a device in a Daydream VR headset, or connect a headset to a PC to experience VR, will be able to buy standalone VR headsets.


These devices, made by companies including HTC and Lenovo and supposed to launch this year, will deliver standalone VR experiences.

It’s unclear at this time what specs these devices will have. After all, VR is a type of computing experience that requires certain resources. Google did not share specs details about these standalone Daydream devices and did not mention a firm release date or price for them.

Google also made various announcements related to AR, including a new Tango phone supposed to launch later this year — the Asus Zenfone AR — as well as a new Visual Positioning Service feature that will let users locate things inside stores or other locations.

Finally, Google’s Expedition VR experience for school is going to get an AR component later this year.

Chris Smith Senior Writer

Chris Smith has been covering consumer electronics ever since the iPhone revolutionized the industry in 2008. When he’s not writing about the most recent tech news for BGR, he brings his entertainment expertise to Marvel’s Cinematic Universe and other blockbuster franchises.

Outside of work, you’ll catch him streaming almost every new movie and TV show release as soon as it's available.