Virtual reality is expected to be one of the technology trends in 2016. (Photo : Reuters)
There is no denying that virtual reality technology, or VR technology, has been gaining popularity in the last few months. In fact in March, Oculus finally released the highly awaited kickstarter VR headset - the Oculus Rift - much to the delight of tech enthusiasts. HTC has since followed Oculus' lead. The Taiwanese company, in partnership with Valve corporation, has recently showcased and made available their own VR device - the HTC Vive.
Both the Rift and the Vive have received positive reviews since their unveiling. However, it seems like these VR headsets available at present are at the risk of losing its following. According to reports, another tech giant is poised to unveil their own virtual reality gadget. Unlike the Rift and the Vive, the new headset would work independently without the need to be tethered to a phone or a PC.
In a recent published article, Android Police claimed that it won't be long until Google showcases their own virtual reality headset and platform. The publication recently came across an interesting placeholder on Google's Google Play Developer Console. This placeholder, labeled Android VR, is currently unclickable. However, given its appearance, it seems like earlier rumors claiming that Google would unveil a VR headset during this week's Google I/O event is not completely off-base.
Elsewhere, Engadget co-founder and current Betaworks executive, Peter Rojas, confirmed the arrival of Android VR headset and platform on his Twitter account last week. Rojas is adamant that the device would arrive during the I/O event, which is scheduled in May 18 -20, 2016. Moreover, the tech insider claims that the Google headset would be less powerful than the headsets available at present.
"Android VR will definitely be announced next week, and from what I've heard will be less powerful than the Vive or Rift," tweeted Rojas, as reported by Engadget.
The same Engadget article claims that the Android VR would be released come the unveiling of the Android N operating system. Android N is still far from being ready for download. Nevertheless, once the operating system and the wearable becomes available for purchase, there is a huge possibility that Google's Android VR would be a complete game changer.
Watch VR horror gaming using HTC Vive:
