We’ve always been fans of Google, and have thoroughly enjoyed the company’s work on all things VR-related, especially as it is all based on the motto: VR FOR ALL. With that in mind, it was with mixed reactions that we welcomed Google’s latest (sort of?) VR-related product: the VR180 format & equipment.
The ideology behind the collaborative effort of the YouTube and Google Daydream VR teams is well-intentioned: it wants to make immersive video as accessible as regular videos on YouTube. There’s an idea that this could be a great way to ease people onto 360VR. Only time will tell if that becomes true, but in the moment, we don’t like having “VR” & “180” in the same sentence.
Just like they did with the Standalone VR Headsets based on the Daydream VR OS/Platform, Google will not manufacture the Cameras. They are providing the “certification standards”, and of course, the content distribution platforms. The first to release VR180 certified Cameras will be Lenovo, LG and YI Technology.
As you can see from the gif above, and from the VR180 codename, you can get a very immersive 180 degree view of the action while in VR mode on Google Cardboard, Daydream or PSVR headset, while still being able to watch the flat version when off VR mode.
The line drawing below seems to showcase the plans for the Lenovo model of VR180 camera, which also boasts stereoscopic capabilities. This just might turn out to be what gets more filmmakers & content creators to take baby steps towards full Cinematic 360 after all.
