Skip to main content

Ready to browse the web in VR? Google Chrome for Android gets WebVR API

google chrome beta webvr api daydream view 0021 720x720
Image used with permission by copyright holder
It looks like we will soon be able to browse the web in virtual reality — Google announced in 2014 that it would begin supporting the likes of Google Cardboard within Chrome through the WebVR platform. Well, nothing has really happened since then, but it looks like Google’s renewed virtual reality efforts are bringing that goal back.

A post on the Chromium Blog from Google’s Brandon Jones says the latest beta version of Chrome for Android enables both the WebVR API and the Gamepad API extensions. What does that mean? Well, it gives web developers the orientation data and the Daydream controller data they will need to build Daydream and other VR headset support into their websites. While only Android and Daydream are supported right now, Google says that Cardboard will be supported in the next Chrome beta.

“Origin Trials allow a developer to temporarily enable the feature for all Chrome users visiting their website. The WebVR API is still evolving and will undergo further changes based on developer feedback before being enabled by default for all pages,” Jones wrote in the blog post.

For developers interested in bringing virtual reality to their websites, there is an entire website dedicated to helping you.

The news basically means that web apps could soon support Daydream and its users will have access to a much wider range of content than what is currently available on the Google Play Store. That is good news because while there is certainly not a bad selection of apps and games available on Daydream, but some more content could really help push the platform over the edge.

To use the new WebVR API for yourself, you will need a compatible Android device, Daydream headset, and the beta version of Chrome. Of course, you will also need to find actual websites that support the platform, which may be a little difficult right now.

Editors' Recommendations

Christian de Looper
Christian’s interest in technology began as a child in Australia, when he stumbled upon a computer at a garage sale that he…
6 Google Chrome keyboard shortcuts in Windows you need to try
Google Chrome opened on a laptop.

Part of being productive at work and at school means making the most of your time, especially when web browsing. You've probably heard about keyboard shortcuts on Windows that can help you with this, but your web browser also has several shortcuts that can be used to help you cut down on the use of your mouse.

We've already highlighted these shortcuts that can be used in Microsoft Edge, but now it's time to move our attention over to the world's most popular web browser, Google Chrome. Here are some of the best Chrome keyboard shortcuts you can use.
Ctrl + Shift + T  to reopen previously closed tabs

Read more
The most influential Google Chrome features in its history
Google Chrome opened on a laptop.

Fourteen years after it first launched, version 100 of Google Chrome is now out for download. It's been quite the journey and there have been many features added along the way that have shaped the browser as we know it.

In 2008, many people were just getting their first smartphones, and web browsers were all-important. Microsoft's now-deceased Internet Explorer (which then held the biggest market share) and Mozilla Firefox were the major players. Then, a search engine company named Google entered the space in 2008 and changed the game forever.

Read more
Microsoft Edge vs. Google Chrome: Performance, design, security, and more
microsoft edge chromium to roll out automatically soon chrome

Google Chrome remains the king of the web browsers, with around 60% share of the browser market as of December 2021. Microsoft's Edge browser, which uses the Chromium open-source engine, is in a lower spot around 12%, which is impressive with the browser having only been introduced in the last couple of years. Microsoft pushed the new Edge to all Windows 10 desktops, replacing the old Windows 10 version and giving Edge a built-in -- well -- edge. Edge is also the default browser for Windows 11.

Which browser should you use? The two share a lot of similarities, but some key differences make one the clear winner.
Design

Read more