Android N, clues to support Virtual Reality in the Developer Preview 2

The Developer Preview 2 of the Android operating system N, which is still under development, has introduced not only new visible end-user side and well-documented, but also new lines of code that suggest the introduction of future functionality. Specifically, as noted by Ars Technica, the second version of Android for developers N contains explicit references to the app "Listener VR" and "VR Helper", as well as a warning that the user should be noted that a particular application will be running when using "applications in virtual reality mode."

The details of the virtual reality mode operation are not yet clear, but new clues help to confirm the precedent of The Wall Street Journal reports that, in February, had referred to the work of Google, working to integrate natively into its system the mobile OS for Virtual Reality tools; a functional transition to the presentation of the next version of the VR stand-alone viewer Bigg, described as a much more advanced version of Cardboard, equipped with "screen, high-performance processors and cameras facing outward," according to the report TWSJ .

Among the hypotheses advanced on the operation mode of the virtual reality of Android N figure the possible deactivation of the automatic mode of the smartphone block, to ensure that the use of the app VR happen seamlessly. Previous reports have referred to deeper integration of the libraries and the apps in Android VR N; the first clues contained in the Developer Preview 2 Android could therefore only be the first signs of an even broader support.

To find out more details about it will probably be necessary to wait for the Google I / O event, which kicks off May 18 to 20 in which the home of Mountain View will report on the new Android operating system N. Among the new features include, in addition, support for 3D Touch and the split-screen mode for multitasking mode to tablet.

By the reinforcement of tools dedicated to the management of VR content in Android N will benefit of course, all manufacturers of smartphones interested in exploring the emerging market segment. Companies like Samsung, LG and Huawei have already submitted VR viewers to use in tandem with smartphones and other brands could be added in the coming months.