Google's virtual reality platform Daydream VR was a new feature included in the Android 7.1 Nougat update launched in October. The VR headset and Android update allows smartphone owners to play VR games, view 360-degree videos, and watch VR movies. A Redditor has just hacked Google's platform to run it on a Nexus 5X phone instead of a compatible Pixel or Moto Z handset.
Daydream VR works with few smartphone models. They include Google's Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones, as well as Motorola's Moto Z, Moto Z Droid, and Moto Force Droid.
Redditor CharaNalaar reported on a thread in an Android sub-Reddit that he found a method to run the VR platform on an LG Nexus 5X phone, which was released in October 2015.
The Reddit post shares that the smartphone must be running Android 7.0 Nougat. Google VR Services and the Daydream app also must be installed on the smartphone, according to Tech Times.
CharaNalaar also noted that the hack requires a Daydream viewer and controller. The Redditor used Google's Cardboard viewer and a controller emulator installed on an old gadget.
Hackers also have to access a file that includes Nexus 5X system features and add to the root permissions tag. Then they just have to reboot the Nexus 5X phone.
CharaNalaar reported that Daydream apps are updated through Google's Play Store. He can also download apps that now work with the LG phone launched with Nexus 6P for Android Marshmallow.
Another Reddit poster stated in the main thread's comments that he launched the Daydream VR platform on an LG V20 phone (released in September 2016) running Android 7.0 Nougat. It is possible all Android 7.0 phones can run the Google platform.
CharaNalaar noted that his Nexus 5X had a lot of lag while running Daydream apps. It is unclear, however, if this is due to the smartphone's hardware or because it was using the $20 Cardboard viewer.
In related news, Netflix is rolling out to Daydream VR and looks similar to the video streaming service's Gear VR app, according to Engadget. This follows the VR platform getting a copiousness of new games and apps last week including HBO Now, "Need for Speed," "Gunjack," "LEGO Brickheadz," "Underworld Overlord," and "Wands."
Here's a review of Daydream VR: