Google’s stand-alone headset to blur boundaries between VR and AR

Google’s headset won’t need a computer or smartphone to function and give more of an AR experience than VR

Google’s headset won’t need a computer or smartphone to function and give more of an AR experience than VR

Reports have suggested that moving forward with the Daydream project, where Google's partners will make virtual reality (VR) headsets, the Alphabet subsidiary doesn't have any plans to making a VR headset of its own.

However, according to reports, Google seems to be working on a stand-alone device that won't need a smartphone to experience VR and augmented reality (AR).

While Google already has companies like Xiaomi working on a VR headset that will work with Android smartphones, none of their partners have a product planned for the AR market. However, the search giant seems to be using Daydream as an intermediary step towards a headset that has both VR and AR capabilities.

Unlike the Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, Gear VR or Cardboard, this device from Google won't need a computer or smartphone to function. Also, the upcoming headset with no release date in sight is expected to have more of an AR experience.

The Wall Street Journal had reported in February that Google was working on a stand-alone VR headset with "outward-facing cameras" and a Movidius chip to "track the motion of a user's head." If these reports are true, Google might be prepping a headset to take on Microsoft's HoloLens that uses AR for a VR-like experience through special apps. Also, Google's recent investment in Magic Leap, a company working on similar experience, reaffirms the reports.