Consumers can soon expect the marketing push for Google’s Daydream platform, now that Android 7.0 Nougat has officially released and is rolling out onto Nexus devices. Daydream code is built into the new operating system and will make any Android smartphone with compatible specs work optimally with the Daydream platform. The intent of Daydream is to minimize latency (the time it takes VR to register movement).
Google is currently partnering with many creators including YouTube, Hulu and HBO to provide content for Daydream. Finn Staber, co-founder of TheWaveVR, told Bloomberg Daydream was “revolutionary” and Google will soon be promoting lots of content for the platform.
However, much about Daydream remains a mystery. When Google first showcased the concept at Google I/O in May, the tech giant said several manufacturers -- including Samsung, HTC, LG, Xiaomi, Huawei, ZTE, Asus and Alcatel -- would announce “Daydream ready” smartphones during the fall.
So far, only ZTE has released a device, a China-exclusive version of its Axon 7 , which it promotes as Daydream ready. Samsung has also released a smartphone with similar specs to the Chinese market. However, the manufacturer has not stated whether the device is Daydream ready.
However, pundits have been able to narrow down some Daydream specs based on the Axon 7, and Google’s May statement that there were no Daydream ready devices on the market. Not even its Nexus 6P is compatible with Daydream.
Possible Google Daydream specifications
Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 chip or later
WQHD display or higher
6GB RAM
Android 7.0 Nougat or later
Daydream may also include other requirements, such as a high-power battery and USB Type-C. The VR platform is expected to release in the fall as a day to unify all Android-based smartphones with the same VR quality. Daydream is expect to launch in the fall; however, Google has not specified exactly when the platform will be available.
