In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps to run Google Daydream with your Pixel 8 Pro. Google Daydream, a virtual reality platform, was once a promising venture that allowed users to immerse themselves in a world of virtual experiences using a smartphone inserted into a VR headset. While the excitement surrounding Daydream was palpable, it eventually joined Google’s growing list of discontinued projects, with the Pixel 3 series being the last officially supported device.
However, thanks to the dedication of developers, you can still enjoy the wonders of Google Daydream on your latest Pixel device, the 8 Pro. But before you dive into the world of virtual reality, there are a few essential steps to follow. The number of supported apps is dwindling, the Pixel only supports 64-bit apps, and not all apps are compatible. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making your Pixel 8 Pro Daydream-compatible and share a list of exciting apps to try out.
What You’ll Need
Before you embark on this journey into virtual reality, here’s what you’ll need:
1. A Rooted Device
To get started, you need to root your Pixel 8 Pro using Magisk patched init_boot. This is a critical step to enable Daydream on your device.
2. Magisk Module
Download the Magisk Module labeled “bring-back-google-daydream-vr.zip” (Credit: XDA Senior Member crisco654). Flash this module via Magisk and reboot your device.
3. Essential Apps
Install the following apps:
- Daydream
- Daydream Keyboard
- VR Services
Setting up Google Daydream
Now that you have the necessary components in place, it’s time to set up Google Daydream on your Pixel 8 Pro. Follow these steps:
- Launch the Daydream app.
- Go through the initial setup process.
With this, you have successfully made your Pixel Daydream-compatible. But what’s next? The Daydream app itself doesn’t offer an extensive library of apps to explore, so you might want to consider other options for downloading Daydream-compatible apps.
Exploring Daydream-Compatible Apps
The number of Daydream apps available for download is quite limited, primarily because developers have moved on from supporting devices that are no longer in production. However, you can still find some noteworthy apps that work seamlessly on the latest Pixel 8 Pro. Some of the recommended apps include:
- Firefox Reality Browser
- YouTube VR
- Gizmo VR Video Player
- VRTV Video Player
- Rez Infinite
These apps provide an immersive virtual reality experience and are fully compatible with your Pixel 8 Pro.
Incompatible Apps
It’s important to note that not all apps are compatible with Daydream on the Pixel 8 Pro. Some popular apps that no longer work with Daydream include:
- PlexVR
- Google Chrome
- DeoVR
- SkyboxVR
- Google Street Maps VR
- Expeditions
- Fulldive VR
Before you go on a downloading spree, make sure to check if the apps you’re interested in are supported.
Conclusion
With these steps, you can bring Google Daydream back to life on your Pixel 8 Pro. While the platform may no longer be actively developed, there are still some gems waiting to be explored in the world of virtual reality. If you encounter any issues or have questions about the process, feel free to ask in the comments, and we’ll do our best to assist you.
class="wp-block-heading">Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it safe to root my Pixel 8 Pro for Daydream compatibility?
Rooting your device comes with some risks, so proceed with caution. Make sure to follow reliable guides and use trusted tools like Magisk to minimize potential issues.
2. Can I install Daydream on any Android device?
Daydream was designed for specific Google Pixel devices. While it’s possible to make it work on other devices, the experience may not be optimal, and compatibility can be limited.
3. Are there any alternative VR platforms for the Pixel 8 Pro?
While Daydream is one option, you can explore other VR platforms like Google Cardboard, which offer a wide range of apps and experiences.
4. Are there any plans for Google to revive Daydream?
As of now, Google has not announced any plans to revive Daydream or release a successor. It’s considered a discontinued project.
5. How do I find and install APKs for Daydream apps?
You can try third-party app stores or websites to find APKs for Daydream-compatible apps. Be cautious about the sources you use and ensure the APKs are safe to install.
