"Google has been very active in producing cheap Virtual Reality devices for you to experience in your hands. 2015 was the year when VR massively moved forward and this year, in 2016, though a month and a half still remains for us to wave 2016 goodbye, it is already a far bigger year for VR technology and Google's plan. Google in its I/O developers conference, introduced Daydream. Daydream is a new VR platform which is built right into Android devices and is supported by the Daydream View headset.

Daydream- An Introduction

Daydream gives us access to virtual reality content on a mobile device. Daydream has three key aspects;

 First, has a standard optimal specification list that should be met by manufacturers for a smartphone to be labeled as Daydream-ready.

 Daydream has a Google-made Daydream view VR headset. Other manufacturers can also build their own designs if they meet Google's standards.

 The third aspect is an all-around hub for VR content. It is called Daydream Home and is a one-stop shop. You can start VR apps or view the 360-degree videos at Daydream home while wearing the headset itself.

Daydream - Why we need it?

If you have gone through watching 360-degree Youtube videos on a Samsung Gear VR, you will know that virtual reality content is fragmented. It is not available from one central location but is available from different places. And this makes the user jump through several hoops just to get to the content you wish to view.

Therefore, Daydream is designed to solve these issues. For Android device owners, it will house the content from all mobile VR developers. So making the accessibility of all sources big and small, possible through the hub. Moreover, the Google Cardboard is easy to use, not high tech, and is comfortable. Daydream View headset designed by Google, apart from being comfortable, has a very practical approach. You don’t have to learn any tactics or memorize instruction manuals to run it.

Daydream- Device Compatibility

Along with headsets to meet Google's Daydream specifications, Android smartphones must also match the optimal settings to be labeled as Daydream-ready.

The smartphones that they manufactured, Google Pixel and Google Pixel XL are both compatible due to the presence of Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 processor. Whereas, they have yet to announce the specific drivers.

Other compatible manufacturers who have committed to releasing Daydream-ready phone includes Samsung, HTC, LG, Xiaomi, Huawei, ZTE, Asus and Alcatel.

There is also a Daydream remote control designed by Google, which enables users to interact with the applications without having to tap the side of the headset or fiddling with other headset controls.

Daydream- Compatible Apps

Google has confirmed about YouTube content, Google Play Movies, and Google Photos to be available to watch. However, many third -party app announcements are yet to be made.

The other apps that are compatible are Netflix, HBO Go, and Hulu. Also, an app based on JK Rowling's Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them will be coming too along with plenty of games.

Daydream- Launch and Pricing?

Google's Daydream View VR headset and its supportive remote control are available for pre- order from Google's online store. However, shipping will start on 10 November and is priced at £69 in the UK, $79 in the States. The initially available color is slate gray, and two other colors, a lighter gray and a crimson will be available later. The good news for all you Paklappers is that you will very soon be able to order it from Paklap.pk’s product section."