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Google's new NYC pop-up is like a Google-ized Apple Store

Google's got a hands-on way to check out its new phones, VR and Home hub in New York City. Here's a peek at the space that's open for the holidays.

Scott Stein
I started with CNET reviewing laptops in 2009. Now I explore wearable tech, VR/AR, tablets, gaming and future/emerging trends in our changing world. Other obsessions include magic, immersive theater, puzzles, board games, cooking, improv and the New York Jets. My background includes an MFA in theater which I apply to thinking about immersive experiences of the future.
Scott Stein
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Google, NYC

Google is launching a New York pop-up for the holidays to show off its "Made by Google" products, including the Pixel phones, Google Home, 4K Chromecast Ultra, Google Wi-Fi routers and Daydream View VR. We got a chance to check out the Soho space on 96 Prince Street before its public opening later this week.

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Google in NYC

It's a compact space, but laid out like an art gallery of tech.

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Nothing will be sold here; it's a showcase of Google tech, not a store. But there are plenty of demo stations.

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It's easy to get hypnotized by the sphere of tablets.

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Google's Wi-Fi routers on the table to the left of the sphere.

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The sphere is meant to represent Google Photos, but I mostly saw color patterns.

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A simulacrum of a NYC kitchen, where Google Home is demoed in everyday family uses.

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We didn't cook anything.

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A demo of the Chromecast, Google Wi-Fi and Google Home in a tiny living room.

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Behind a door, a mysterious room filled with mirrors and glowing LED ropes, where we were encouraged to take low-light photos with the Pixel phones.

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Things got weird in the glowing mirror room as we all went into selfie mode.

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Some specialized Pixel phone cases on display.

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Google's offering a variety of phone case designs, and some you can make yourself. But they can't be ordered here at the pop-up.

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Four Google Pixel phone cases, which pair with custom wallpapers.

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The entrance to the Daydream View VR lounge, complete with polygonal trees.

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You can try the Daydream View here. A close-up peek of the cozy-soft VR headset and its lenses.

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The Daydream View comes with its own motion-sensitive remote for games and apps, which works like a tiny Wii remote wand.

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If you show up at Google's NYC pop-up, you can spend some time peeking at games and YouTube videos here in this forest. Maybe we'll go back and join you.

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