Google Cardboard Review: Affordable VR or Just a Gimmick?

Exploring Affordable Virtual Reality with Google Cardboard

Are you interested in experiencing virtual reality but concerned about the cost of equipment like the Oculus Rift? You're not alone. Fortunately, a relatively inexpensive alternative exists: Google Cardboard.

Google launched the Cardboard initiative in 2014 as a means of fostering the development of both virtual reality (VR) technology and associated applications. The name "Cardboard" reflects the simplicity of the concept – users can either purchase or build their own headset utilizing readily available materials like velcro, adhesive tape, and, crucially, cardboard.

Acquiring a Google Cardboard Headset

Once you have a headset, you can utilize a compatible Android smartphone to access a range of VR applications available through Google Play.

We recently tested the EightOnes VR Kit, which was purchased from Amazon for $17.99 (currently priced at $19.99). Numerous Cardboard kits are available; you can explore options on Google's official Cardboard kits page or follow their step-by-step instructions to construct your own.

Unboxing and Assembly

Most Cardboard kits require some assembly. Our kit arrived in a flat, cushioned envelope. The package included the VR headset itself, a velcro head strap, and a guide to assembly.

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We opted for a model featuring a head strap, anticipating a more comfortable and immersive experience. However, head straps are typically optional, as is the NFC sticker designed for quick pairing with the Cardboard app – which will be discussed shortly.

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The assembly process was straightforward, involving the insertion of tabs into corresponding slots. Careful folding completed the construction. The entire process took approximately 10 minutes, resulting in the headset shown below.

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Using the Headset

With the headset assembled, an Android smartphone is positioned against the front, secured by a Velcro closure.

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While individual Cardboard kits vary, they all share a fundamental design. Features like NFC and head straps aren't universally included, and kits are available in diverse colors and finishes.

Google Cardboard provides an accessible entry point into the world of virtual reality, offering a cost-effective alternative to more expensive systems.

Initial Configuration of the Cardboard Application

To understand the functionality of Cardboard, the application was first downloaded and installed from the Google Play Store.

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Upon initial launch, the Cardboard app requires configuration for your specific headset. Initiate the setup process by tapping the arrow located in the bottom-right corner of the screen.

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If your headset incorporates an NFC sticker, simply positioning your phone against the front cover will enable automatic pairing. Alternatively, a QR code scan is necessary for units lacking NFC functionality.

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Following viewer identification, the system is ready for operation. In our case, the viewer was automatically recognized and set as the default configuration.

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With the setup complete, it’s time to test the device and experience its capabilities.

Experiencing Virtual Reality with Google Cardboard: A Review

Interaction with the Cardboard application was achieved by navigating between icons through head movements, specifically turning the head from side to side.

A tutorial demonstration is included to quickly familiarize users with the system. Navigation back to the home screen is accomplished by sliding and releasing the magnetic ring located on the headset’s side, causing it to click and tilt 90 degrees (as illustrated below).

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The demonstrations available within the Cardboard app are relatively simple in nature. Beyond the introductory Tutorial, options include a Tour Guide offering a brief virtual visit to the Palace of Versailles, and an Exhibit demo featuring views of African face masks, among others.

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The Earth demo proved to be the most engaging, allowing for a virtual flight over cities and notable landmarks. While not fully immersive, given the use of a $20 cardboard viewer with basic plastic lenses and simple animations, it was nonetheless a compelling experience.

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However, the close proximity of the smartphone screen – just two inches from the eyes – combined with focusing through the inexpensive plastic lenses, proved somewhat straining. Furthermore, unexpected sensations of dizziness and nausea were experienced.

Consequently, despite our intention to thoroughly test a variety of applications with Cardboard, the onset of a significant headache quickly limited our testing sessions to only a few minutes at a time.

Additional VR applications are accessible through the Google Play store, directly from within the Cardboard app.

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We tested the Orbulus application to determine if our initial experience with Cardboard was representative, and unfortunately, the same issues – vertigo, nausea, and headache – were again present.

It is conceivable that virtual reality, or specifically Google Cardboard, may not be to our preference. Alternatively, a higher-quality headset with improved lenses could potentially reduce or eliminate these problems. We suspect that both factors, along with the limitations of the smartphone platform, contribute to these issues.

A fluid and convincing VR experience is heavily reliant on processing power; faster hardware yields better results. During our evaluation, we utilized a Nexus 5, which is now considered outdated, and this was particularly noticeable in the Earth demo, where rendering landscapes during flight required considerable time.

Expanding Virtual Reality Access: An Examination of Google Daydream

Following an initial exploration of VR technology with Google Cardboard, the company significantly broadened its involvement with the introduction of Daydream. This more sophisticated virtual reality system debuted in 2016 alongside the release of the Pixel smartphones.

Enhanced VR Capabilities

Daydream provides compatibility with more intricate and engaging VR applications. This is achieved through the implementation of advanced rendering and tracking methodologies.

The Daydream View headset itself is distinguished by its comfortable design, featuring a soft, fabric-lined interior. It also incorporates a single-handed touch and motion controller for intuitive interaction.

Cost and Availability

The Daydream View headset package is priced at $70. While this represents a higher investment than Google Cardboard, it remains considerably more affordable than competing systems like Samsung’s Gear VR.

Initially, Daydream was exclusively compatible with Google-branded phones. However, the platform is open to other manufacturers.

Expanding Device Support

Several leading smartphone manufacturers have certified their flagship devices for use with Daydream. These include Samsung, Motorola, ASUS, Huawei, and ZTE.

While not all Android phones are compatible with Google Cardboard, those possessing high-end specifications and functionality may find Daydream a worthwhile exploration into a more comprehensive virtual reality experience.