Globe Telecom has partnered with Google Development Group Philippines to run a hackathon for apps optimised for Google’s Cardboard virtual reality technology.

Google Cardboard is named after the cardboard visor in which people place their smartphone to access “virtual reality” functionality.

As well as the visor, the ‘viewer kit’ also includes lenses, a magnet (which works with the phone’s magnetometer to act as an input method), and Velcro and a rubber band for holding it all together.

The Cardboard SDK for Android supports apps that display 3D images via binocular rendering, track and react to head movements, and interact through the magnet input. There is also an SDK for the Unity gaming engine.

The aim of the 24-hour hackathon, which is due to take place on 31 January, is for local developers to create simple apps that can be used with the Cardboard technology.

Globe hopes for apps in the education, travel/culture, gaming and retail category. Anne Michelle Santos, a developer relations manager at Globe Labs, said some of the apps could potentially be adopted by Globe Telecom.

Developers will also be in with a chance of winning PHP35,000 ($785) by designing apps specifically for the art and history-focused Ayala Museum in Makati City, where the hackathon will be held.

A number of apps have already been created for Cardboard, providing experiences such as the impression of jumping off a skyscraper, riding a rollercoaster, or watching Paul McCartney perform ‘Live and Let Die’ in 360 degrees.