Google Expected to Unveil Standalone Android VR Headset on May 18

Google, which has its I/O 2016 conference scheduled for the next week, is expected to unveil a new Android VR headset at the event. While Google has not confirmed it yet, but various rumours doing the rounds on the Internet suggest that a new headset is coming at I/O 2016.

Speculations are rife that it will be a standalone VR headset and would not require a phone.

In what becomes the latest in a string of rumours, Android Police spotted a new placeholder on the Google Play Developer Console that hints at the launch of an Android VR headset at the upcoming Google conference.

"We're seeing what looks like additional evidence. Folks who sign into the Google Play Developer Console are seeing Android VR alongside Android Wear, Android TV, and Android Auto. No, it's not a mirage. The icon has appeared in the Pricing & Distribution area. Clicking doesn't do anything yet, unlike the other platforms. The current icon is the same as that of Android Wear, which suggests that this is only a placeholder for now." said Android Police.

Early this week, tech journalist Peter Rojas (former Engadget Editor) tweeted, "Android VR will definitely be announced next week, and from what I've heard will be less powerful than the Vive or Rift."

He, later, also tweeted that it "will be a standalone headset".

Citing the Wall Street Journal, Reuters early this year had reported that Google was developing a virtual reality headset that worked without a smartphone or computer.

"The headset will include a screen, high-powered processors and outward-facing cameras," said the Reuters report.