Google Daydream View VR: Release date announced for Alphabet's virtual reality headset

Google's Daydream View virtual reality headset has been confirmed for a 11 November release date in selected regions. The visually striking fabric-covered device will cost £69 in the UK.

Powered by Google's Daydream VR technology for Android, the mobile HMD is compatible with Daydream-ready smartphones such as the recently released Google Pixel and Pixel XL.

Bundled with a bespoke motion controller and promising a greater field of view, accurate head tracking, Daydream represents a huge step up from Google's previous forays into virtual reality with the cheap and cheerful Cardboard VR project.

In the UK, Daydream View will be available from high-street smartphone retailers Carphone Warehouse and EE as well as Google's online store. At the time of writing orders placed are scheduled to dispatch "by 10 November".

Other worldwide pricing and retailers are as follows:

Google is confident that the Daydream View has an edge over competing mobile VR headsets when it comes to design and comfort. The Alphabet company claims the fabric material used in construction makes the device up to 30% lighter than rival mobile virtual reality sets such as Samsung's Gear VR. In theory this could eliminate some of the discomfort caused by prolonged virtual excursions.

At launch, Daydream View will support select Android apps, with Google's big hitters such as YouTube, Photos, Google Play Movies and Street View all receiving a VR makeover.

Also promised for the weeks following Daydream View's launch are several "experiences" that utilise the motion controller. These include the Daydream-exclusive mini-golf game Wonderglade, Gunjack 2 from the makers of Oculus Rift and PSVR space shooter Eve: Valkyrie, and virtual wind-waving action in a tie-in app promoting the upcoming Harry Potter spin-off movie, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.

IBTimes UK will be getting hands-on with Daydream View in the near future so be sure to check back soon for our impressions of Google's marquee VR peripheral.