Tech giant Google showcased Expedition, a virtual-reality device made from cardboard, at its annual I/O developer conference in San Francisco.
Google's VR Cardboard gadget is available in the market for just less than $25. In fact, anyone can improvise their own virtual-reality gear if they want to because Google has already provided the instructional materials.
Putting a lower price on the invention is one of company's objectives so that many can use and experience virtual reality, without having to spend a lot.
Google has also announced this year that they've been developing Virtual Reality expeditions to be used by teachers and students in conducting Virtual Field Trips. They collaborated wth camera maker GoPro to provide a 360-degree, high-resolution virtual reality environment.
This recent and latest project can push education to a whole new level and will give many people access to many places where they have never been, or may not have a chance to go to.
In order for Google to develop this kind of technology even further, they acquired two start-ups to help them out last month, the Skillman & Hackett and Thrive Audio.
The concept of 'virtual reality' was previously seen as taboo or impossible, only to be seen in science fiction movies. But it seems like we are inching our way towards truly experiencing it, with the help of Google and other enterprises who are also on this endeavor.
One of these is Facebook-owned Oculus VR, which is rapidly producing the Oculus VR headset. They were the first to accomplish a breakthrough in the industry after launching the DK1 model in 2012, followed by the upgraded version, DK2 in 2014.
Now, the newest version of the headset is being used as a device that allows gamers to actually feel like they are physically playing the game.
Oculus VR recognizes the value of virtual reality. During their launch, the company stated that, "Virtual reality is going to transform gaming, film, entertainment, communication, and much more."
