Mattel Brings Back View-Master for a Virtual Go-around


MattelViewMasterRemember Google Cardboard? The inexpensive virtual reality headset kit that is seriously made out of cardboard? Yeah, it's seriously awesome, and now has some extra cool purpose. Put that with the very iconic View-Master from Mattel, you've got a VR version of the View-Master for a new generation. The $29.99 headset simply uses Google's Cardboard technology and your smartphone. You just slide your Android phone into into the headset, and with the use of apps, you can see virtual worlds instead of just static images.

MattelViewMaster1The hardware, a plastic red and orange shell that actually resembles the classic View-Master, has a plastic lever to mimic the use of a capacitive touch screen. Paralleling the use of an old View-Master stereoscope, Mattel still uses those old picture discs with the squares around the edge. This time, they have been re-imagined as AR markers and downloadable content tokens by viewing them on a flat surface. Despite the nostalgia, this technology is more focused on using actual VR and apps, and it's easy to do so, only relying on your smartphone to accomplish this. It works with all Google Cardboard-compatible apps found in the Google Play store, including a specially made View-Master app.

MattelViewMaster2Pc Mag seems confident that the new View-Master shows a great deal of potential at becoming the next “infotainment device for kids”. Expected to start shipping around October, the device comes with one “reel” of content, with additional reels for $14.99 per four pack (The Verge). Of course, your desire to bulk up on picture discs is up to you. There's plenty of fun to be had using just the apps on your smartphone.

Topics: Technology News Display Screen Technology Gadgets & Peripherals

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