Google and Mattel partner to create new View-Master toy

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Google and Mattel partner to create new View-Master toy

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Jared Newman from PCWorld said today that if you’ve tried Google Cardboard and are over the age of 30, you’ve probably noticed some parallels to those old View-Master stereoscopes. Now, Mattel is embracing the comparison with its own virtual reality headset.

Starting this fall, Mattel will sell a virtual reality version of View-Master using the same software as Google Cardboard. Instead of sticking slide reels into the plastic frame, you’ll plop in an Android phone. Instead of seeing static images, you’ll use apps to explore virtual worlds.

Mattel isn’t totally abandoning the concept of reels. They’re just being re-purposed as augmented reality portals. Throw a few reels on the table, and they’ll project miniature worlds when viewed through the phone’s camera.

Flicking the View-Master’s levers while looking at a reel will then take you straight into the scene, so you can get a close-up on things like the solar system, the dinosaur age, and the sights of San Francisco. Mattel says it will try to create new reels using some of its old View-Master footage, potentially offering scenes from Star Wars, Star Trek, and old music concerts.

The View-Master will cost $30, and will include one sample reel, with additional reel three-packs selling for $15 each. If you already have Google Cardboard, it sounds like you’ll also be able to use the reels without buying the View-Master itself.

USA TODAY said Google says dozens of companies are making Cardboard devices today, not all made of cardboard. “The whole goal of Cardboard was to make immersive virtual reality experiences as accessible as possible for everyone,” said Mike Jazayeri, product director for Google Cardboard. “This allows you to do it in a bite-sized (way). That is the most natural way for people, particularly kids, to experience this technology today.”