Google will build their own VR headset this year, just not the way we thought they would

Leading up to Google I/O, there were strong rumors that Google was going to release a standalone VR headset named Android VR, and we thought Project Tango may be a big part of it. Well, that obviously never happened.

What we got instead was Daydream VR, which is a VR platform, but not necessarily a headset. That said, Google did reveal that they’ve detailed a reference design for the platform that manufacturers can follow to introduce their own Daydream VR headsets. It’s much like what happened with Google Cardboard’s inception.

That said, Google will make a Daydream VR headset. That much was confirmed in their VR session at Google I/O.

It will be based on the aforementioned reference design, though it should be no different than what others will be able to build themselves. You’d still have to drop your phone in and use it, so there’s no standalone hardware being put to task here.

We’re not sure when Google will unleash their Tango-driven future on us, but we’re patiently waiting. In the meantime, let’s have some fun with Daydream!