Galaxy S8 and S8+ will get Google Daydream support this summer

Google had an exciting announcement about virtual reality and augmented reality at its keynote today, revealing, among other things, that it is working with HTC, Lenovo and Qualcomm to produce standalone VR headsets. These headsets feature all of the necessary technology built into the device, eliminating the need to insert a phone or run a cable to a PC. Those who don't mind the phone-based VR, though, will soon have a new option: Daydream and the Galaxy S8.

Phone-based virtual reality, of course, is comprised of headsets that support one or more types of smartphones, such as Google's Daydream headset with support for the Pixel and Samsung's GearVR with support for Galaxy phones. At the Google IO 2017 conference today, Google announced amidst its VR news that the Galaxy S8 and S8+ will receive a software update this summer that brings with its support for Google's Daydream VR platform.

When exactly this update will arrive is unclear, but when it is available, users will be able to connect their Galaxy S8 or S8+ to the Google Daydream View VR headset and use it to explore virtual realities using their phone. This adds Samsung's latest flagship phone to the already somewhat extensive list of handsets that support Daydream View.

Other smartphones that can be used with Google's virtual reality platform include the Pixel and Pixel XL, Google's own notable smartphones, as well as the Moto Z and Moto Z Force from Motorola, Huawei's Mate 9 Pro, and ZTE's Axon 7 handset. Soon enough you'll be able to use the anticipated ASUS ZenPhone AR phone and, of course, the Galaxy S8 handsets.