Virtual Reality gadgets are gradually gaining popularity, with many major corporations releasing their own VR technology. Google Cardboard is the most accessible and affordable VR option, even if Samsung’s Gear VR, Oculus Rift, Sony Playstation VR, and HTC Vive are the ones receiving the most notoriety. Since we are all relatively new to virtual reality, it is understandable that we don’t all have a thorough understanding of how Google Cardboard works. You must fully understand Google Cardboard because Google is rumoured to be releasing a new VR headset shortly. That is why we are here, after all. Everything you need to know about Google Cardboard is provided below:
What is Google Cardboard?
With the help of an inexpensive viewer, Google Cardboard’s virtual and augmented reality platform allows you to convert your smartphone into a VR device. The term comes from the fact that the Google Cardboard is made of inexpensive parts and a foldable cardboard viewer. You can set up your Android or iPhone in the compartment of the VR and AR device and use it to view via the lenses. After that, you can access compatible apps and explore a variety of virtual reality material. The lenses provide you a wide-angle 3D image that gives you the impression that you are inside the user interface.
Things to Note
These components are included in Google’s Cardboard reference design:
- Foldable cardboard viewer
- Two 45 mm plastic lenses
- Hook and Loop fastener like Velcro for head-straps
- Rubber bands
- Magnet or capacitive tape to interact with the smartphone display
- Optional NFC tag
Where to buy one?
Although the third-party viewers you may purchase have excellent designs and build quality, Google Cardboard’s reference design is made of cardboard. We advise you to get a Google Cardboard from the Google Get Cardboard page, which lists the many third party viewers that are readily available. A Google Cardboard can be purchased for as little as $17 or as much as $50.
Additionally, you may even go ahead and construct your own Google Cardboard gadget. You’ll need to download the Google Cardboard manufacturing kit, which begins downloading as you click it, to do that. It contains instructions and all the materials you’ll need to create your very own VR gadget.
Getting Started: How to set up?
You’ll need an iPhone or an Android smartphone running Android 4.1 or higher in order to set up a brand-new Google Cardboard. You must first download a VR app that is compatible with Google Cardboard before you can begin using virtual reality. We will start by advising you to download the official Google Cardboard app from the Play Store or iTunes.
The app will prompt you to scan the QR code on your Google Cardboard when you first launch it in order to check compatibility and adjust the lens type to work with your smartphone. When finished, the software will split your display in half. After that, mount your Google Cardboard experience on your face by inserting your iPhone or Android phone into the compartment.
Note:If your Android smartphone has NFC compatibility, the Google Cardboard’s NFC tag will instantly activate the Google Cardboard app when the smartphone is inserted. Simply turn off NFC on your smartphone to disable this.
How to operate Google Cardboard?
You will see several Cardboard demos and more once you have Google Cardboard attached to your face and the Cardboard software loaded on your device. Only demo versions of games like Tutorial, Explorer, Exhibit, Urban Hike, Kaleidoscope, and Welcome Video are available in the iPhone app. The Android app, however, includes Cardboard demonstrations, a 360 Video Channel (for watching VR videos), a Cardboard Camera (for taking 360 degree virtual reality photographs), and a straightforward VR game. The app has a section called Get Apps where you may find apps compatible with VR. Using the software, you may view any landmark in virtual reality because it supports Google Street VR. The Google cardboard app for Android, in contrast to the iPhone version, offers unique and intriguing demos like Earth, Tour Guide, My Videos, Exhibit, and Photo Sphere.
A few things to keep in mind when using Google Cardboard are listed below:
- Move your head left or right or in a circle to navigate around.
- Select an option by aiming at an option and pressing the magnet button situated at the left side of the device.
- To go the main menu any time, tilt the Cardboard 90 degrees to your right.
Some Beginner Tips to know
Here are some guidelines to remember if you recently purchased a brand-new Google Cardboard viewer:
1. Capture and view VR photos
The new aCardboard Camera app from Google for Android allows you to take VR-friendly panoramic photographs with depth and sound. In the Google Cardboard viewer, you may see the photographs that were taken and experience the lovely moments in virtual reality.
2. Use Street View in VR mode
With Google Cardboard integration included into the Google Street View app, you can easily experience the iconic places across the world. To access the VR mode, simply choose a landmark and hit the Cardboard icon in the top right corner. Put your smartphone in the Cardboard viewer and the programme will split the display so you can experience the landmarks as if you were actually there.
3. Use a Bluetooth controller
While many fun games are compatible with Google Cardboard VR, using motion sensors to play them might be unsettling. Additionally, using the magnet button to play various games is difficult. Therefore, if you intend to play VR games seriously, you should purchase a Bluetooth controller. Having your hands free will allow you to utilise a Bluetooth controller, so make sure the head straps on your Google Cardboard are secure.
4. Conserve Battery
It’s crucial to practise power conservation because engaging in VR gaming or watching VR material can be very draining on your smartphone’s battery. The best course of action is to switch your smartphone to Airplane mode so that no network activities in addition to VR activities consume your battery. In order to watch the VR content even while you are offline, be sure to download it beforehand.
5. Place your phone correctly
You must perfectly position your smartphone in the Google Cardboard viewer for the magnetic button to function. Always make sure that the smartphone’s head is facing the Cardboard holder’s left.
6. Use a Swivel Chair
We do not advise using Google Cardboard in public settings since you might cause an accident. The VR activities on Cardboard demand a lot of circling and moving around, so if you’re at home, we’d advise using a swivel chair since you can simply spin around in one.
Compatible devices
Unfortunately, not every Android smartphone can use the Google Cardboard software. The device only functions with cellphones equipped with a magnetometer or compass sensor, which makes sense given that the VR device’s button is a magnet. Check to see if your smartphone has a magnetometer before purchasing.
10 Oculus Rift Alternatives You Should Know
Ready to experience virtual reality through Google Cardboard?
Although virtual reality is still in its infancy, you may easily experience it without burning a hole in your wallet thanks to Google Cardboard. There are many other Cardboard options available, and even though there aren’t as many apps, the ones that are there are still enjoyable. Many apps, games, and amazing films exist that will undoubtedly transport you to a completely different planet. However, use caution because prolonged use of Google Cardboard can result in motion sickness. Have you purchased a Google Cardboard yet? If so, what was your experience like? Comment below with your thoughts and let us know.
