The Google Pixel 3a doesn't support Daydream VR

Speaking with The Verge, Google confirmed shortly before Google I/O 2019 that the new Google Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL doesn’t support Daydream VR.

According to Google, “resolution and framerate” issues made its VR platform incompatible with the new Pixel phones. Google didn’t say much more, but it did also say that its Daydream View headset will still work with the Pixel 3 and other compatible Android smartphones.

The lack of Daydream support might hurt VR fans a bit, but Google hasn’t paid much attention to the platform in recent times. This might be a result of the phone-based VR market now on the decline, with standalone headsets like the Oculus Quest and Lenovo Mirage Solo now a reality.

It’s a strange about-face for Google, which prominently featured Daydream as part of its original Pixel unveiling back in 2016. The company also heavily pushed Cardboard headsets and published a Daydream app that accessed a special part of the Google Play Store with compatible apps.

We’ll see if Google plans to reinvigorate Daydream with its Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL successors later this year. For now, Daydream doesn’t look to have a very bright future.

NEXT: Google Daydream VR: ‘Daydream-ready’ phones and compatible devices