Google Cardboard Update Rolls Out, as New VR Division Gets New Boss
Google has taken more concrete steps toward its virtual reality goals with the creation of a new VR division. Meanwhile, its budget VR headset is getting an update as well.
Google Cardboard update
In a post at the Google Developers Blog, Google Cardboard Product Manager Nathan Martz announced that the VR device has been updated with spatial audio, allowing it to deliver more accurate surround sound. In effect, Google has made its VR headset more powerful as the improved positional audio will make a significant improvement in how users experience VR. The update was realized — thanks to a technology developed by Thrive Audio, a VR firm that Google acquired last year, according to NDTV.
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"Many apps create simple versions of spatial audio--by playing sounds from the left and right in separate speakers," wrote Martz. "But with today's SDK updates, your app can produce sound the same way humans actually hear it."
The update comes at a "minimal impact" on the CPU, according to Google. It explains that the SDK is optimized for mobile CPUs and does most of the processing outside of the primary CPU.
The new update is a sign that, at the very least, Google's interest in the VR space is growing.
Google's new VR division
A recent development in Mountain View is sending the message that Google is taking its virtual reality endeavors more seriously.
A Google spokesperson has confirmed to ReCode that Google has formed its own dedicated division for virtual reality. The move indicates the company is taking the threat from other players in the VR field as a credible one, the publication adds.
The division's new head is Clay Bavor, former vice president for product management. The new VR head has updated his Twitter page to say "VP, Virtual Reality at Google."
Bavor is no stranger to Google's VR endeavors. He had overseen Google Cardboard since it launched in 2014. ReCode cites several unnamed Google people who say Bavor was spending more time with the VR headset before his full-time move to the VR division.
Taking over the helm of the vacated office is Diane Greene, former head of VMware.
