Google Daydream VR platform offers an ecosystem of virtual reality applications and hardware without the restrictions that other manufacturers put on their offerings. For instance, Samsung has a VR platform, but it can only be accessed by Samsung devices, and only those with high end specifications. On the other hand, Google has promised to open up their platform to more gadgets before the end of this year.
During Alphabet’s earnings announcement yesterday, Google’s CEO Sundar Pichai said that they will extend the support for Daydream to 11 devices in total this year. So far, 7 phones are already in the program, they include Gooogle Pixel, Pixel XL, Moto Z, ZTE Axon 7, the Asus Zenfone AR, Huawei’s Mate 9 Pro and Porsche Design Mate 9 (just a Huawei mate 9, but for the filthy rich).
Today marks the official entrance of the Samsung Galaxy S8 and the S8+ to the list (making a total of 9 phones) via an over the air update. It is important to note that VR is supported not in all countries yet; Mexico and other smaller countries in Europe are yet to be added. As for Africa, all I can say is that Google was showcasing Daydream at a Machine Learning event here in Kenya, so that perhaps is a positive sign? You decide.
Anyway, there still 2 phones left to reach the promised 11. In case you have not had a chance to experience Virtual Reality, you can do so by visiting Samsung stores in major cities around you. They let customers test it for free. It is super amazing; lets you travel to new dimensions and explore new worlds in an experience which is much better than what you get in 3D films. In addition, Daydream and the new Samsung Gear VR has a controller that lets you play games and interact with the new worlds. Make sure you check them out.