Google is making 360-degree cameras Street View-ready

There will be 20 certified cameras arriving in 2017. Logically, not all of them get the same certifications — as you can see below, it varies from brand to brand. You’d want to gravitate toward companies like Yi Technology for a mobile ready camera, for instance, while you’d want to look at a company such as Matterport for VR. As for the most recognizable names in the business, like GoPro and Samsung? They’re certified as workflow ready.

The move may help kickstart demand for 360-degree cameras, since it gives you a reason to buy one even if you have no interest in VR. Want to show friends what it was really like on the beach? You now have an easy solution. Pros creators might particularly appreciate the auto and workflow certifications. Also, this could have a ripple effect on Google’s other businesses. If you already have a camera for Street View, it’s not a stretch to post 360-degree videos on YouTube. And of course, there’s a chance you’ll want a VR headset (like Google’s Daydream View) to increase the immersion. This probably won’t usher in a 360-degree revolution, but every little nudge might help with Google’s long-term ambitions.