When Google first revealed details for its next virtual reality (VR) head-mounted display (HMD), Daydream, a number of smartphone manufacturers were announced to be partnering with the company, one of which was ZTE. Then in the summer of 2016 ZTE launched its flagship device, the Axon 7, with confirmed compatibility for Daydream. Today the smartphone manufacturer has announced an update roll out for the Axon 7 adding Android Nougat and Daydream functionality.
While Google has partnered with the likes of Samsung, Huawei, Alcatel, Asus, HTC, LG, Xiaomi and ZTE on Daydream compatible devices, very few have appeared since the HMDs launch in November, with Google’s own Pixel being the main entry point for Daydream use.
“Delivering Android Nougat for the Axon 7 provides consumers with an enhanced experience and greater value when purchasing this flagship device,” said Lixin Cheng, chairman on CEO of ZTE USA. “Also, with Daydream certification, consumers are now able to have an immersive VR experience at a price they can afford when paired with the Daydream View headset.”
As ZTE’s top-of-the-range smartphone, the Axon 7 features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor, a 5.5 inch quad HD AMOLED display, 4GB RAM, 20MP Hybrid IS rear-camera and a 8MP front-facing camera, dual hi-fi quality speakers with Dolby Atmos Surround Sound, and dual sim card slot
The start of 2017 has been decidedly quiet for the fledgling headset with few notable software launches. The few that have happened included live event streaming specialist NextVR launching its app and Resolution Games porting its popular fishing title Bait! from Samsung Gear VR, having surpassed one million players.
For any further Google Daydream updates, keep reading VRFocus.