In order to bolster its VR efforts with new talent, Google has just snapped up Logan Olson, developer of virtual reality music production tool SoundStage. Olson"s hire is the latest hint at Google"s interest in virtual reality as a tool for creative work.
“We’re excited to welcome Logan to the Google VR team,” a Google spokesperson told The Verge regarding the hire. “As a leader in thinking about creating in VR with his app SoundStage, we’re really inspired by what he’s built and for the potential for VR and creativity.“
SoundStage launched on Steam last month, coming out of Early Access with a 1.0 release that also marked the end of its development. The app allows users to operate a music studio in virtual space using the HTC Vive headset and controllers. The app has also since been made available for Oculus Rift.
While Olson joining Google seems to confirm SoundStage has reached the end of its growth, Google says it plans to build on what Olson has learned for upcoming and existing products. However, Olson"s hire isn"t the first show of Google"s interest in the creative possibilities of VR. The company also acquired the team behind the app Tilt Brush back in 2015.
Google"s Daydream VR platform launched along with its Pixel and Pixel VR phones last year. While news has been mostly quiet regarding the platform, Google did release a small update for the app on Friday.
Source: The Verge