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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|image=[[File:google cardboard1.jpg|350px]]
|name = Google Cardboard
|VR/AR=[[Virtual Reality]]
|image =
|Type=[[Head-mounted display]]
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|Subtype=[[Slide-on HMD]], [[DIY HMD]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Platform=
|Subtype = [[Mobile VR]]
|Creator=[[David Coz]], [[Damien Henry]]
|Platform = [[Google Cardboard SDK]]
|Developer=[[Google]]
|Creator = [[Google]]
|Manufacturer=
|Developer = David Coz, Damien Henry (Google)
|Operating System=[[Android]], [[iOS]]
|Manufacturer = Various (DIY or third-party)
|Requires=Smartphone
|Announcement Date = June 25, 2014 (Google I/O)
|Predecessor=None
|Release Date = June 25, 2014
|Successor=[[Google Cardboard 2]]
|Price = Free (DIY) to $15-$25 (pre-made)
|Display=Depends on the smartphone
|Website = https://arvr.google.com/cardboard/ (archived)
|Resolution=Depends on the smartphone
|Versions = Cardboard v1 (2014), Cardboard v2 (2015)
|Pixel Density=Depends on the smartphone
|Requires = Compatible smartphone (Android or iOS)
|Refresh Rate=
|Predecessor = None
|Persistence=
|Successor = [[Google Daydream View]]
|Precision=
|Operating System = Works with Android, iOS
|Field of View=
|Chipset = Powered by smartphone
|Tracking=3DOF
|CPU = Powered by smartphone
|Rotational Tracking=IMUs in Smartphone
|GPU = Powered by smartphone
|Positional Tracking=None
|HPU =
|Update Rate=
|Storage = Powered by smartphone
|Latency=
|Memory = Powered by smartphone
|Audio=
|SD Card Slot = Via smartphone
|Camera=
|Display = Smartphone display
|Sensors=
|Subpixel Layout = Smartphone dependent
|Input=
|Peak Brightness = Smartphone dependent
|Connectivity=
|Resolution = Smartphone dependent
|Power=
|Pixel Density = Smartphone dependent
|Weight=
|Refresh Rate = Smartphone dependent (typically 60Hz)
|Size=
|Persistence = Smartphone dependent
|Release Date=June 2014
|Field of View = ~80-90°
|Website=[https://www.google.com/get/cardboard/ Google Cardboard]
|Horizontal FoV = ~80-90°
|Vertical FoV = ~80-90°
|Average Pixel Density = Smartphone dependent
|Peak Pixel Density = Smartphone dependent
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Optics = 40mm biconvex lenses (standard)
|Ocularity = Binocular
|IPD Range = Fixed (typical ~64mm)
|Adjustable Diopter = No
|Passthrough = No
|Tracking = 3DoF (smartphone sensors)
|Tracking Frequency = Smartphone dependent
|Base Stations = None required
|Eye Tracking = No
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = No
|Body Tracking = No
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Positional Tracking = No
|Update Rate = 60Hz (typical)
|Tracking Volume = Stationary
|Play Space = Stationary
|Latency = Smartphone dependent
|Audio = Via smartphone
|Microphone = Via smartphone
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Via smartphone
|Camera = Phone camera accessible (some apps)
|Connectivity = None (passive viewer)
|Ports = None
|Wired Video = No
|Wireless Video = No
|WiFi = Via smartphone
|Bluetooth = Via smartphone
|Power = None required (passive)
|Battery Capacity = N/A
|Battery Life = N/A
|Charge Time = N/A
|Dimensions = ~150mm × 80mm × 100mm (typical)
|Weight = ~80-100g (cardboard), varies by material
|Material = Cardboard (original), various (third-party)
|Headstrap = Elastic band or headstrap (varies)
|Haptics = No
|Color = Brown (cardboard), varies
|Sensors = None (uses phone sensors)
|Input = Magnet trigger (v1), conductive lever (v2), screen tap
|Compliance = N/A (DIY)
}}
}}
Google Cardboard, announced in Google I/O on June 25, 2014, is a DIY, cardboard cut-out, smartphone mount developed by [[Google]]. With a smartphone inserted, Google Cardboard allows the user to have a [[Virtual Reality]] experience by holding it close to his or her face..


While Google Cardboard requires a smartphone with stereoscopic display software, this simple and affordable device is constructed with lenses, a magnet, a piece of hook-and-loop fastener and a rubber band. With no official manufacturer, Google has listed the schematics and instructions for the device on its website. Users can either construct one themselves or purchase them from a number of unofficial vendors. [[#Version 2|2nd version]] of Google Cardboard was released on May 28, 2015. It supports larger smartphones and replaced the magnetic ring with a universal input button.
'''Google Cardboard''' is a discontinued [[virtual reality]] platform developed by [[Google]], consisting of a fold-out cardboard or plastic viewer into which a smartphone is inserted. First unveiled at the Google I/O developer conference on June 25, 2014, Cardboard was designed as a low-cost, accessible entry point to virtual reality—users could build their own viewer from cardboard, lenses, and simple components using Google's published specifications, or purchase inexpensive pre-made viewers. Created by Google engineers David Coz and Damien Henry during their "20% Innovation Time Off," Cardboard demonstrated that meaningful VR experiences could be achieved with minimal investment, leading to over 15 million viewer units shipped by November 2019. Google stopped selling Cardboard viewers in March 2021, though the open-source design remains available.


[[Apps]] such as immersive games and concert experiences are available in the Google Play store. Developers familiar with [[OpenGL]] can use [[Cardboard SDK]] for [[Android]] and [[iOS]] to rapidly create VR apps for the device.
== History and Development ==


Cardboard is [[Google VR]]'s low-end mobile VR platform while Daydream is the high-end.
=== Origins at Google ===
Created during innovation time:
* David Coz and Damien Henry, French engineers
* Google Cultural Institute in Paris
* 20% "Innovation Time Off" project
* Exploring accessible VR concepts


==Hardware==
=== Google I/O 2014 Reveal ===
===Version 1===
Surprise announcement:
The core of Google Cardboard is a folded piece of cardboard cutout. The cardboard container serves to mount your smartphone in front of your eyes similar to a set of goggles. Two circular lenses are placed in front of where your eyes should be and used to concentrate your field of view to create immersion. User can slide one of the two magnets placed at the side of the device to interact with the smartphone through the magnetometer. Additionally, an NFC tag can be placed in the device to allow the smartphone app to know when it should be in VR mode and when it should not.
* June 25, 2014 keynote
* 6,000 kits distributed to attendees
* Immediate hands-on experience
* Unexpected VR announcement


====Parts====
=== Design Philosophy ===
'''Cardboard''' - Corrugated cardboard sheet, preferably E Flute (corrugated cardboard comes in a variety of thicknesses called "flutes"), available at many art supply stores and online . For best results, you should look for strong, thin cardboard (sturdy shoe box rather than moving box). Minimum size: 8.75in (22cm) by 22in (56cm), and 0.06in (1.5mm) thickness.
Accessibility-first approach:
* Use existing smartphone
* Minimal additional cost
* DIY construction possible
* Open specifications


'''2 Lenses''' - This is the trickiest component. Lenses that have a 45mm focal distance might work. Biconvex lenses work best because they prevent distortion around the edges.
=== Cardboard v1 (2014) ===
Original design:
* 12-step assembly
* Magnetic ring trigger
* Up to 5.5" phone support
* Simple construction


'''2 Magnets''' - One neodymium ring magnet and one ceramic disk magnet. Approximate size: 0.75in (19mm) diameter and 0.12in (3mm) thickness.
=== Cardboard v2 (2015) ===
Improved design at Google I/O 2015:
* 3-step assembly (simplified)
* Up to 6" phone support
* Conductive lever button (universal)
* Better compatibility


'''2 Velcro''' - Two strips of regular strength adhesive-backed velcro. Approximate size: 0.75in (20mm) by 1.25in (30mm).
== Design Philosophy ==


'''1 Rubberband''' - One rubber band, to prevent the phone from sliding out. Minimum length of 3.2in (8cm).
=== Democratizing VR ===
Core mission:
* VR for everyone
* Remove cost barriers
* Simple enough for anyone
* Educational potential


'''1 NFC Tag''' (Optional) - One sticker NFC tag. Program it with the URL cardboard://v1.0.0
=== Open Platform ===
Open specifications:
* Plans freely available
* Manufacturers welcomed
* Third-party variations encouraged
* SDK for developers


====Instructions====
=== DIY Ethos ===
The following are 3 images. Please print the images then glue the images onto cardboard. Next cut out the cardboard based on the images and construct the device.
Build your own:
[[File:google cardboard instruction1.jpg|300px]] [[File:google cardboard instruction2.jpg|300px]] [[File:google cardboard instruction3.jpg|300px]]
* Basic materials list published
* Home construction possible
* Craft project for education
* Maker community appeal


===Version 2===
== Construction ==
Announced and released on May 28, 2015 during Google I/O 2015. It improved upon the original design by allowing smartphone with screens as large as 6 inches to fit inside. Additionally, it replaced the magnetic ring with a universal input button made out of conductive foam. The button uses an interior hinge mechanism to tap the phone's screen as if you are tapping it with your finger. The new button not only works with every phone but also frees up the phone's magnetometer for drift correction. The new Cardboard can be assembled in 3 steps instead of 12, making it easier to build.


==Setup Tutorial==
=== Materials (DIY) ===
Basic components:
* E-flute corrugated cardboard (1.7mm)
* Two 40mm biconvex lenses
* Magnets (v1) or conductive foam (v2)
* Velcro strips
* Rubber band
* NFC tag (optional)


==Apps==
=== Three-Part Design ===
===Google Cardboard (App)===
Cardboard body:
[[Google Cardboard (App)]] is the official Cardboard app developed by Google. It is available for both Android and iOS.
* '''Chassis''': Main body with lens cutouts
* '''T-shirt''': Front panel with phone opening
* '''Button''': Input mechanism


===Android Apps===
=== Lens Specifications ===
[[Cardboard Design Lab]]
Optical requirements:
* 40mm focal length
* Biconvex shape
* 25mm diameter (typical)
* 2-5cm focal distance


===iOS Apps===
=== Assembly ===
Simple construction:
* v1: 12 folding steps
* v2: 3 simple steps
* No tools required
* Kid-friendly assembly


===Access Cardboard Apps with Other HMDs===
== Optical System ==
[[Samsung Gear VR]] users can download the [[CB Enabler for Gear VR]]<ref>https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.youtopiavr.cbenabler</ref> to access Cardboard Apps.


==Developer==
=== Simple Lenses ===
===Cardboard SDK for Android===
Basic optics:
[[Cardboard SDK for Android]] simplifies various VR development tasks such as lens distortion correction, head tracking, 3D calibration, side-by-side rendering, stereo geometry configuration and user input event handling.
* 40mm biconvex lenses
* ~80-90° field of view
* Fixed focal length
* Fixed IPD (~64mm)


===Cardboard SDK for Unity===
=== Limitations ===
[[Cardboard SDK for Unity]] allows the user to use [[Unity]] to create an VR world from scratch, adapt an existing Unity 3D app or build an app that can effortlessly switch between VR and non-VR modes. Unity support for iOS was announced on May 28, 2015 during the Google I/O 2015.
Simple design trade-offs:
* No IPD adjustment
* Fixed focus
* Some distortion
* Basic optical quality


==History==
== Input Methods ==
Google Cardboard was announced and released in Google I/O 2014.


'''May 28, 2015''': Google announced a newer, larger and improved [[#Version 2|Cardboard]].
=== Cardboard v1 Input ===
Magnetic trigger:
* Ceramic and neodymium magnets
* Slide magnet to activate
* Detected by phone magnetometer
* Not compatible with all phones


'''May 28, 2015''': Google Cardboard support for iOS was released in Google I/O 2015.
=== Cardboard v2 Input ===
Conductive lever:
* Conductive tape/foam
* Presses touchscreen directly
* Universal compatibility
* Simple mechanism


'''May 28, 2015''': [[YouTube]]'s [[360 Videos]] will support Cardboard.
=== Additional Input ===
Other options:
* Screen tap (reach inside)
* Bluetooth controller
* Head movement/gaze
* Voice commands


'''November 7, 2015''': New York Times shipped over 1 million Google Cardboard to their subscribers. In addition to Cardboard, Times also released a VR App on November 5th and a series of VR films.
== Software Platform ==


'''January 13, 2016''': [[Spatial audio]] is supported by [[Cardboard SDK for Android]] and [[Cardboard SDK for Unity|Unity]]<ref>http://googledevelopers.blogspot.co.uk/2016/01/spatial-audio-comes-to-cardboard-sdk.html</ref>
=== Cardboard SDK ===
Development platform:
* Android SDK
* iOS SDK
* Unity plugin
* Unreal Engine plugin


'''January 27, 2016''': Google announced that 5 million Cardboard viewers were shipped and 25 million Cardboard apps were installed from Google Play.
=== Cardboard Apps ===
Wide ecosystem:
* Google Play Store
* Apple App Store
* Thousands of experiences
* Educational content


'''February 10, 2016''': Google announced native support for [[Unity]] during the [[Vision Summit 2016]] [[event]].
=== Notable Applications ===
Popular experiences:
* Google Earth VR
* YouTube VR (360° videos)
* Google Street View
* Google Expeditions (education)
* Cardboard Camera (capture)


'''March 2, 2017''': Google announced that 10 million cardboards were shipped, 160 million downloads of cardboard apps were downloaded from Google Play and the 30 most popular apps have more than 1 million downloads.
=== VR Mode ===
Split-screen rendering:
* Stereoscopic 3D
* Barrel distortion correction
* Gyroscope-based tracking
* Standard smartphone sensors


==References==
== Third-Party Viewers ==
<references />


=== Certified Works with Google Cardboard ===
Official certification:
* Quality standards
* Compatibility testing
* "Works with Google Cardboard" badge
* Consumer assurance


[[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]]
=== Popular Manufacturers ===
Commercial viewers:
* Mattel View-Master VR
* Homido
* Knox
* Unofficial Cardboard
* Hundreds of variants
 
=== Material Variations ===
Beyond cardboard:
* Plastic viewers
* Foam constructions
* Premium materials
* Durable designs
 
== Use Cases ==
 
=== Education ===
Primary application:
* Google Expeditions (virtual field trips)
* Science visualization
* History experiences
* Classroom VR
 
=== 360° Video ===
Media consumption:
* YouTube 360° videos
* News experiences
* Travel content
* Concert recordings
 
=== Demonstrations ===
VR introduction:
* First VR experience for many
* Conference demonstrations
* Marketing activations
* Trade show giveaways
 
=== Gaming ===
Casual experiences:
* Simple VR games
* Puzzle experiences
* Exploration games
* Limited by 3DoF and input
 
== Commercial Distribution ==
 
=== Google Distribution ===
Official availability:
* Google I/O giveaways
* Google Store sales
* Educational programs
* Promotional distribution
 
=== Third-Party Sales ===
Wide availability:
* Amazon
* Retail stores
* Educational suppliers
* Bulk orders available
 
=== Promotional Use ===
Marketing tool:
* Custom branded viewers
* Movie promotions
* Product launches
* Event giveaways
 
== Impact and Legacy ==
 
=== VR Accessibility ===
Democratized VR access:
* Millions first VR experience
* Lowest cost entry point
* Global reach
* Educational impact
 
=== Market Validation ===
Proved VR interest:
* Over 15 million units (by 2019)
* Massive app ecosystem
* Developer interest generated
* Market demand demonstrated
 
=== Industry Influence ===
Inspired developments:
* Mobile VR category created
* Samsung Gear VR influenced
* Google Daydream successor
* Standalone VR concepts
 
=== Educational Legacy ===
Classroom impact:
* Google Expeditions reached millions
* Virtual field trips
* Science education
* Continued educational VR interest
 
== Google Expeditions ==
 
=== Educational Platform ===
Classroom VR:
* Teacher-led VR experiences
* Virtual field trips
* 900+ expeditions available
* Global deployment
 
=== Impact ===
Educational reach:
* Millions of students
* Thousands of schools
* Multiple countries
* Memorable learning
 
=== Transition ===
Platform evolution:
* Expeditions features moved to Google Arts & Culture
* Cardboard support continued via browser
* Legacy content preserved
 
== Discontinuation ==
 
=== March 2021 ===
Google Store removal:
* Official Cardboard viewers discontinued
* SDK open-sourced
* Design specifications remain available
* End of official support
 
=== Reasons ===
Market evolution:
* Standalone VR matured (Quest)
* Mobile VR declined
* 3DoF obsolete for serious VR
* Mission accomplished (VR awareness)
 
=== Open-Source Legacy ===
Continued availability:
* Cardboard SDK open-sourced (2019)
* Specifications still public
* Third-party viewers available
* DIY always possible
 
== Technical Specifications Summary ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Specification !! Cardboard v1 !! Cardboard v2
|-
| Release || June 2014 || May 2015
|-
| Max Phone Size || 5.5" || 6.0"
|-
| Assembly Steps || 12 || 3
|-
| Input || Magnetic trigger || Conductive lever
|-
| Lenses || 40mm biconvex || 40mm biconvex
|-
| FOV || ~80° || ~90°
|-
| Tracking || 3DoF (phone) || 3DoF (phone)
|-
| Weight || ~80g || ~100g
|-
| Price || ~$15 (kit) || ~$15-25 (kit)
|}
 
== Comparison with Mobile VR ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Feature !! Google Cardboard !! Samsung Gear VR !! Google Daydream
|-
| Price || ~$15 || $99 || $79
|-
| Phone Support || Most smartphones || Samsung Galaxy only || Daydream-ready only
|-
| Tracking || Phone IMU || Custom IMU || Custom IMU
|-
| Input || Trigger/gaze || Touchpad + controller || Controller
|-
| Build Quality || Basic || Premium || Premium
|}
 
== See Also ==
* [[Google]]
* [[Google Daydream]]
* [[Samsung Gear VR]]
* [[Mobile VR]]
* [[Virtual Reality]]
* [[Google Expeditions]]
 
== References ==
{{Reflist}}
 
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:Mobile VR]]
[[Category:Google]]
[[Category:2010s VR]]
[[Category:Discontinued]]
[[Category:DIY]]

Latest revision as of 03:07, 8 January 2026

Google Cardboard
Basic Info
VR/AR Virtual Reality
Type Head-mounted display
Subtype Mobile VR
Platform Google Cardboard SDK
Creator Google
Developer David Coz, Damien Henry (Google)
Manufacturer Various (DIY or third-party)
Announcement Date June 25, 2014 (Google I/O)
Release Date June 25, 2014
Price Free (DIY) to $15-$25 (pre-made)
Website https://arvr.google.com/cardboard/ (archived)
Versions Cardboard v1 (2014), Cardboard v2 (2015)
Requires Compatible smartphone (Android or iOS)
Predecessor None
Successor Google Daydream View
System
Operating System Works with Android, iOS
Chipset Powered by smartphone
CPU Powered by smartphone
GPU Powered by smartphone
Storage
Storage Powered by smartphone
Memory Powered by smartphone
SD Card Slot Via smartphone
Display
Display Smartphone display
Subpixel Layout Smartphone dependent
Peak Brightness Smartphone dependent
Resolution Smartphone dependent
Pixel Density Smartphone dependent
Refresh Rate Smartphone dependent (typically 60Hz)
Persistence Smartphone dependent
Image
Field of View ~80-90°
Horizontal FoV ~80-90°
Vertical FoV ~80-90°
Average Pixel Density Smartphone dependent
Peak Pixel Density Smartphone dependent
Foveated Rendering No
Optics
Optics 40mm biconvex lenses (standard)
Ocularity Binocular
IPD Range Fixed (typical ~64mm)
Adjustable Diopter No
Passthrough No
Tracking
Tracking 3DoF (smartphone sensors)
Tracking Frequency Smartphone dependent
Base Stations None required
Eye Tracking No
Face Tracking No
Hand Tracking No
Body Tracking No
Rotational Tracking Yes
Positional Tracking No
Update Rate 60Hz (typical)
Tracking Volume Stationary
Play Space Stationary
Latency Smartphone dependent
Audio
Audio Via smartphone
Microphone Via smartphone
3.5mm Audio Jack Via smartphone
Camera Phone camera accessible (some apps)
Connectivity
Connectivity None (passive viewer)
Ports None
Wired Video No
Wireless Video No
WiFi Via smartphone
Bluetooth Via smartphone
Power None required (passive)
Battery Capacity N/A
Battery Life N/A
Charge Time N/A
Device
Dimensions ~150mm × 80mm × 100mm (typical)
Weight ~80-100g (cardboard), varies by material
Material Cardboard (original), various (third-party)
Headstrap Elastic band or headstrap (varies)
Haptics No
Color Brown (cardboard), varies
Sensors None (uses phone sensors)
Input Magnet trigger (v1), conductive lever (v2), screen tap
Compliance N/A (DIY)


Google Cardboard is a discontinued virtual reality platform developed by Google, consisting of a fold-out cardboard or plastic viewer into which a smartphone is inserted. First unveiled at the Google I/O developer conference on June 25, 2014, Cardboard was designed as a low-cost, accessible entry point to virtual reality—users could build their own viewer from cardboard, lenses, and simple components using Google's published specifications, or purchase inexpensive pre-made viewers. Created by Google engineers David Coz and Damien Henry during their "20% Innovation Time Off," Cardboard demonstrated that meaningful VR experiences could be achieved with minimal investment, leading to over 15 million viewer units shipped by November 2019. Google stopped selling Cardboard viewers in March 2021, though the open-source design remains available.

History and Development

Origins at Google

Created during innovation time:

  • David Coz and Damien Henry, French engineers
  • Google Cultural Institute in Paris
  • 20% "Innovation Time Off" project
  • Exploring accessible VR concepts

Google I/O 2014 Reveal

Surprise announcement:

  • June 25, 2014 keynote
  • 6,000 kits distributed to attendees
  • Immediate hands-on experience
  • Unexpected VR announcement

Design Philosophy

Accessibility-first approach:

  • Use existing smartphone
  • Minimal additional cost
  • DIY construction possible
  • Open specifications

Cardboard v1 (2014)

Original design:

  • 12-step assembly
  • Magnetic ring trigger
  • Up to 5.5" phone support
  • Simple construction

Cardboard v2 (2015)

Improved design at Google I/O 2015:

  • 3-step assembly (simplified)
  • Up to 6" phone support
  • Conductive lever button (universal)
  • Better compatibility

Design Philosophy

Democratizing VR

Core mission:

  • VR for everyone
  • Remove cost barriers
  • Simple enough for anyone
  • Educational potential

Open Platform

Open specifications:

  • Plans freely available
  • Manufacturers welcomed
  • Third-party variations encouraged
  • SDK for developers

DIY Ethos

Build your own:

  • Basic materials list published
  • Home construction possible
  • Craft project for education
  • Maker community appeal

Construction

Materials (DIY)

Basic components:

  • E-flute corrugated cardboard (1.7mm)
  • Two 40mm biconvex lenses
  • Magnets (v1) or conductive foam (v2)
  • Velcro strips
  • Rubber band
  • NFC tag (optional)

Three-Part Design

Cardboard body:

  • Chassis: Main body with lens cutouts
  • T-shirt: Front panel with phone opening
  • Button: Input mechanism

Lens Specifications

Optical requirements:

  • 40mm focal length
  • Biconvex shape
  • 25mm diameter (typical)
  • 2-5cm focal distance

Assembly

Simple construction:

  • v1: 12 folding steps
  • v2: 3 simple steps
  • No tools required
  • Kid-friendly assembly

Optical System

Simple Lenses

Basic optics:

  • 40mm biconvex lenses
  • ~80-90° field of view
  • Fixed focal length
  • Fixed IPD (~64mm)

Limitations

Simple design trade-offs:

  • No IPD adjustment
  • Fixed focus
  • Some distortion
  • Basic optical quality

Input Methods

Cardboard v1 Input

Magnetic trigger:

  • Ceramic and neodymium magnets
  • Slide magnet to activate
  • Detected by phone magnetometer
  • Not compatible with all phones

Cardboard v2 Input

Conductive lever:

  • Conductive tape/foam
  • Presses touchscreen directly
  • Universal compatibility
  • Simple mechanism

Additional Input

Other options:

  • Screen tap (reach inside)
  • Bluetooth controller
  • Head movement/gaze
  • Voice commands

Software Platform

Cardboard SDK

Development platform:

  • Android SDK
  • iOS SDK
  • Unity plugin
  • Unreal Engine plugin

Cardboard Apps

Wide ecosystem:

  • Google Play Store
  • Apple App Store
  • Thousands of experiences
  • Educational content

Notable Applications

Popular experiences:

  • Google Earth VR
  • YouTube VR (360° videos)
  • Google Street View
  • Google Expeditions (education)
  • Cardboard Camera (capture)

VR Mode

Split-screen rendering:

  • Stereoscopic 3D
  • Barrel distortion correction
  • Gyroscope-based tracking
  • Standard smartphone sensors

Third-Party Viewers

Certified Works with Google Cardboard

Official certification:

  • Quality standards
  • Compatibility testing
  • "Works with Google Cardboard" badge
  • Consumer assurance

Popular Manufacturers

Commercial viewers:

  • Mattel View-Master VR
  • Homido
  • Knox
  • Unofficial Cardboard
  • Hundreds of variants

Material Variations

Beyond cardboard:

  • Plastic viewers
  • Foam constructions
  • Premium materials
  • Durable designs

Use Cases

Education

Primary application:

  • Google Expeditions (virtual field trips)
  • Science visualization
  • History experiences
  • Classroom VR

360° Video

Media consumption:

  • YouTube 360° videos
  • News experiences
  • Travel content
  • Concert recordings

Demonstrations

VR introduction:

  • First VR experience for many
  • Conference demonstrations
  • Marketing activations
  • Trade show giveaways

Gaming

Casual experiences:

  • Simple VR games
  • Puzzle experiences
  • Exploration games
  • Limited by 3DoF and input

Commercial Distribution

Google Distribution

Official availability:

  • Google I/O giveaways
  • Google Store sales
  • Educational programs
  • Promotional distribution

Third-Party Sales

Wide availability:

  • Amazon
  • Retail stores
  • Educational suppliers
  • Bulk orders available

Promotional Use

Marketing tool:

  • Custom branded viewers
  • Movie promotions
  • Product launches
  • Event giveaways

Impact and Legacy

VR Accessibility

Democratized VR access:

  • Millions first VR experience
  • Lowest cost entry point
  • Global reach
  • Educational impact

Market Validation

Proved VR interest:

  • Over 15 million units (by 2019)
  • Massive app ecosystem
  • Developer interest generated
  • Market demand demonstrated

Industry Influence

Inspired developments:

  • Mobile VR category created
  • Samsung Gear VR influenced
  • Google Daydream successor
  • Standalone VR concepts

Educational Legacy

Classroom impact:

  • Google Expeditions reached millions
  • Virtual field trips
  • Science education
  • Continued educational VR interest

Google Expeditions

Educational Platform

Classroom VR:

  • Teacher-led VR experiences
  • Virtual field trips
  • 900+ expeditions available
  • Global deployment

Impact

Educational reach:

  • Millions of students
  • Thousands of schools
  • Multiple countries
  • Memorable learning

Transition

Platform evolution:

  • Expeditions features moved to Google Arts & Culture
  • Cardboard support continued via browser
  • Legacy content preserved

Discontinuation

March 2021

Google Store removal:

  • Official Cardboard viewers discontinued
  • SDK open-sourced
  • Design specifications remain available
  • End of official support

Reasons

Market evolution:

  • Standalone VR matured (Quest)
  • Mobile VR declined
  • 3DoF obsolete for serious VR
  • Mission accomplished (VR awareness)

Open-Source Legacy

Continued availability:

  • Cardboard SDK open-sourced (2019)
  • Specifications still public
  • Third-party viewers available
  • DIY always possible

Technical Specifications Summary

Specification Cardboard v1 Cardboard v2
Release June 2014 May 2015
Max Phone Size 5.5" 6.0"
Assembly Steps 12 3
Input Magnetic trigger Conductive lever
Lenses 40mm biconvex 40mm biconvex
FOV ~80° ~90°
Tracking 3DoF (phone) 3DoF (phone)
Weight ~80g ~100g
Price ~$15 (kit) ~$15-25 (kit)

Comparison with Mobile VR

Feature Google Cardboard Samsung Gear VR Google Daydream
Price ~$15 $99 $79
Phone Support Most smartphones Samsung Galaxy only Daydream-ready only
Tracking Phone IMU Custom IMU Custom IMU
Input Trigger/gaze Touchpad + controller Controller
Build Quality Basic Premium Premium

See Also

References

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