If you have a Cardboard at hand, or plan to build one, then you should know that Google has made available to the public a 360-degree video that lets us explore one of its data centers like never before. Two of the most important aspects this video helps us visualize are the overall size, and the extraordinary security measures required to access its interior.
We know very well that Google's data centers are enormous, and very few can actually access their corridors, but from time to time the Mountain View giant lets us take a look. The first time was in October 2012, through an image gallery that is still online. Then last January, the company shared more details about its overall security, which includes biometric locks, laser sensors, and even alligators in the vicinity. Now we have a guided tour of the data center in The Dalles (Oregon). The difference is that this tour was recorded in 360 degrees, and designed especially for users of Google Cardboard, though I imagine owners of other virtual reality headsets will get a similar experience.
A guided tour in 360 degrees
The entry to the data center, eye verification, the physical destruction of damaged hard drives (my favorite part) and cooling are part of the video. It's also worth highlighting the presence of security in each section of the tour, a detail that appears in the comments more than once. Needless to say, Google shows us in this video only what it wants us to see, as the editing work is quite evident, but that doesn't take away from this excellent opportunity.
How to watch it
Google's recommendations to best play the video are to use Google Chrome (though it looks quite good in Firefox), and the YouTube mobile app, with or without Cardboard. The Cardboard feature is only available for the latest versions of Android; however, Google confirmed that iOS support is on its way. Press Play, and enjoy.
