USA Today reports that Google and Mattel have partnered up to bring back the retro View-Master, which dates back to the 1939 World’s Fair. The new View-Master requires a smartphone running a new Mattel app to recreate the 3D effect of the the old toy. Slot your phone into the new device, look at what Mattel is calling its “360 degree photospheres,” and you’ll be able to explore locations like Eiffel Tower or Alcatraz Island in what looks like augmented reality.According to Ed Baig, Mattel’s app isn’t currently supporting video — it’s showing off immersive “experience reels.” Look for it to be available this fall. The View-Master unit will cost $29.99, and the reels will retail for $14.99.View full post on YoutubeMedia Platforms Design TeamThomas HoustonSite DirectorThomas Houston is the PopularMechanics.com Site Director. Before coming to the site, he was part of the founding editorial team of TheVerge.com, and lead the site’s features team.Alexander GeorgeSenior EditorAs Editor in Chief, Alexander oversees all of Popular Mechanics’ editorial coverage across digital, print, and video. He has been a science and technology journalist for over 10 years and holds a Master of Arts degree from the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism. He was previously Technology Editor for Popular Mechanics and before that, a contributor to publications including the Wall Street Journal, Wired, Outside, and was a product tester and reviewer for The Wirecutter. He has been called on to appear on live and taped broadcast programs including Today and programs on MSNBC. He lives in Pennsylvania and rides a 2012 Triumph Street Triple R motorcycle.
