Google Cardboard just got a lot better for iPhone users

Google's virtual reality photo app is finally available on the iPhone. Previously, the app was an Android exclusive, but now iPhone users can create and view VR photos.

The app, called Cardboard Camera, aims to make taking, sharing and viewing VR photos a breeze. You'll still need a Google Cardboard VR headset or any number of generic phone-based VR headsets on the market to view the photos.

Cardboard Camera for iOS gif

Cardboard Camera works similarly to Google's Photo Spheres, except you are limited to panoramic photos. You can't capture the area above or below your sight line, which is a bummer as a complete Photo Sphere would be more immersive. However, Cardboard Camera adds immersion by letting you record sound, so you can dictate what you're seeing or just capture ambient sounds.

Cardboard Camera isn't about creating the most immersive photos but aims instead to make taking VR photos quick and easy. Since you don't have to worry about aligning the on-screen dots just right like you do with Photo Spheres, taking a panoramic VR photo takes a lot less time and effort.

Cardboard Camera for iOS

Sharing is super easy with Cardboard Camera, as you can send and receive shared photos within the app. If your friends don't have a VR headset, that's OK too. You can share a link with them to view your panoramic photos on the web. You can see what that looks like with Google's example gallery.

Cardboard Camera is a novel way to dabble in the world of virtual reality. The inclusion of sound definitely helps elevate the experience, but it's still not as immersive as a 360-degree video.