"This is not a product; it's an initiative. We aren't making any money by offering OnePlus Cardboard. In fact, we are losing money with each one. There will come a day in which we will be able to travel the world and experience amazing things without ever leaving the comfort of our homes. OnePlus Cardboard exists to drive this idea forward." OnePlus says about releasing Cardboard for free.
The Google brainchild, Cardboard, is a DIY virtual reality headset. It folds together, literally, to build a headset. The device will be powered by a smartphone. The project seeks to bring awareness to recent developments in the field of virtual reality. It also aims to encourage involvement in the development, and adoption of the upcoming VR devices. Google is reported to be releasing a wearable VR soon.
Chinese company OnePlus has taken on the initiative to release the Cardboard for free, it appears, for similar reasons. The mobile company's version, however, differs from Google's. The OnePlus model is made of thicker cardboard and is coated by a film for dirt and oil resistance. The company (OnePlus) plans to release more models of the low-cost headset.
The mobile company will be having new models up in the market on July 27, still for free. Those looking forward to use the device may get it then, or make their own. Instructions and specs have also been released for free.
Google's version is made from plain cardboard, and the device's body will hold the smartphone from which it will be powered. The US tech giant has made a manufacturer's kit available for free, for companies that would like to take part in promoting and testing the low-cost virtual reality set. This is for better and more extensive development of future devices.
OnePlus will be releasing a new smartphone, OnePlus 2, on July 28, in a virtual reality event. The launch will incorporate the use of VR headsets for a realtime experience. The sell out of its version of Cardboard seems indicative of a good market reception for the new device.
Google, on the other hand, seems to be working on releasing a new eye-wearable headset, the GG1. A release date for the device has not yet been announced.
