【Unlocking Word Meanings】
今日の単語・フレーズ
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. three-dimensional / ˈθri dɪˈmɛn ʃə nl / (adj.) – referring to something that shows or has length, width, and depth
Example: Let me see the three-dimensional photo.
2. from scratch / frʌm skrætʃ / (idiom) – describes something done by a person on his own instead of something pre-made
Example: The developers had to build the device from scratch.
3. instruction / ɪnˈstrʌk ʃən / (n.) – a set of directions on how to do something
Example: She gave me instructions on how to use my new tablet.
4. magnet / ˈmæg nɪt / (n.) – a material that can attract some metals
Example: Speakers contain magnets.
5. primary / ˈpraɪ mɛr i / (adj.) – main or first
Example: The company’s primary goal is to increase its sales.
【Article】
ニュース記事
Read the text below.
Google Cardboard allows users to turn their smartphones into virtual reality (VR) headsets. Virtual reality refers to the three-dimensional and computer-generated environment that a person can experience or interact with.
The do-it-yourself cardboard works with a VR app, which can be downloaded from Google Play or the App Store. Users have the choice to create the Google Cardboard headset from scratch, order its parts from Cardboard resellers, or purchase a pre-made one.
Users who decide to build their own Google Cardboard can refer to the complete instructions on Google’s developer site. To create the Google Cardboard, a user will need cardboard, lenses, magnets, Velcro, a rubber band, and cutting tools. An NFC tag is also needed, as it would allow the transfer of information from the chip in the tag into the smartphone.
The next step is to download the Google Cardboard app on a smartphone. Once the app has been downloaded and launched, the user can use his or her smartphone as a headset by placing it inside the Google Cardboard. With the Cardboard app, users can access features like tutorials and YouTube. Users can also download more apps and features for the device.
According to Patrick Moorhead [MOOR-hed] of Moor Insights Strategy, developers are the primary market of the Google Cardboard, while the secondary market includes those who are simply interested in trying the technology.
Google Cardboard, on another note, is in direct competition with other VR headsets, which include Facebook’s Oculus, Sony’s Morpheus, and Microsoft’s HoloLens.
|
【Viewpoint Discussion】
ディスカッションテーマ
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
· Would you want to own a Google Cardboard? Why or why not?
· Do you think the Google Cardboard will be popular? Why is that so?
Discussion B
· What improvements would you like to make in the Google Cardboard?
· What other device for your smartphone would you like Google to create? Why?
