Now that the epic 3 hour opening Google I/O keynote has come to a close, the big question on the lips of many was all about the free gifts that those in attendance would receive. It’s becoming something of a tradition for anyone attending Google I/O to receive at least one expensive toy to come away with, and Google’s Sundar Pichair didn’t disappoint this time around.
Bringing the keynote to a close, Pichai acknowledged all the work that goes into filling the Google Play Store with apps and admitted that one of the reasons people travel to Google I/O is to get their hands on all the latest and greatest technology. So what did those present get this year? Cardboard.
But not just any cardboard. Pichai’s special cardboard turns into a makeshift phone holder, but it also has a party trick up its sleeve. With the addition of a couple of prerequisites, the phone holder also turns into a makeshift VR headset a la Oculus Rift. We bet you didn’t see that coming when you saw the photos of a piece of cardboard!
Much more interesting to us though is the other hardware handed out to attendees. With Android Wear very much the hot topic right now, Google has offered those at Google I/O a free LG G Watch or Samsung Gear Live depending on their preference. Free of charge, of course.
But wait, there’s more!
You remember that gorgeous Moto 360 watch that’s been floating around the Internet of late? Well, Google is giving everyone at the keynote their very own to keep, too. They’ll have to wait for Motorola to make them, but that’s a small price to pay when you’re not actually paying for it!
With not one but two new smartwatches to play with, Google will no doubt be hoping that developers will be suitable inspired to start making apps for the new platform.
We’re sure there are a lot of gems which Google didn’t tell us about but there are minds out there which will do the legwork for us, and when we get wind of it, we’ll surely report on it!
Meanwhile, do let us know in the comments section below what you think about the freebies which Google has given away at I/O.
You can follow us on Twitter, add us to your circle on Google+ or like our Facebook page to keep yourself updated on all the latest from Microsoft, Google, Apple and the web.
