Google has announced that it is making its Google Cardboard open source. The search giant has revealed that they are launching the Cardboard open source project.
They are releasing libraries for developers to allow them to build Cardboard apps for both Android and iOS.
Empowering Developers with Open Source
Today, we’re releasing the Cardboard open source project to let the developer community continue to build Cardboard experiences and add support to their apps for an ever-increasing diversity of smartphone screen resolutions and configurations. We think that an open source model—with additional contributions from us—is the best way for developers to continue to build experiences for Cardboard. We’ve already seen success with this approach with our Cardboard Manufacturer Kit—an open source project to enable third-party manufacturers to design and build their own unique compatible VR viewers—and we’re excited to see where the developer community takes Cardboard in the future.
By making Google Cardboard open source, Google is providing developers with the tools and resources they need to innovate and create new virtual reality experiences. This move is expected to foster a vibrant community of developers who can contribute to the project, share their ideas, and collaborate on new features and improvements. The open-source libraries will include APIs for head tracking, lens distortion rendering, and input handling, making it easier for developers to integrate VR functionality into their apps.
Expanding the Reach of Virtual Reality
Google Cardboard has always been about making virtual reality accessible to everyone. By lowering the barrier to entry, Google has enabled millions of people to experience VR using just their smartphones and an affordable cardboard viewer. With the open-source project, this accessibility is set to expand even further. Developers can now create apps that cater to a wider range of devices, ensuring that more users can enjoy immersive VR experiences regardless of their smartphone’s specifications.
Moreover, the open-source nature of the project encourages innovation and experimentation. Developers can modify the source code to suit their specific needs, create custom VR experiences, and even contribute their enhancements back to the community. This collaborative approach not only accelerates the development of new features but also ensures that the project evolves to meet the changing demands of users and technology.
For example, educational institutions can leverage the open-source project to develop VR applications that enhance learning experiences. Imagine students exploring historical sites, diving into the depths of the ocean, or even traveling to outer space—all from the comfort of their classrooms. Similarly, healthcare professionals can create VR applications for therapy, training, and patient education, making medical care more effective and engaging.
You can find out more details about Google’s plans to make their Google Cardboard open source over at their website at the link below.
Source Google
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