Google has partnered with toy firm Mattel to launch a mystery product next week, Digital Spy reports.

Press invites for the launch event depict a View-Master - a stereoscopic toy that dates back to the late 1930s - offering a potential clue about the venture.

The partnership has sparked rumours that the two firms are collaborating on a virtual reality-based toy powered by the same technology as Google Cardboard.

Google Cardboard is a low-cost alternative to VR devices such as the Samsung Gear VR, comprising a fold-out piece of cardboard, lenses and other materials.

It has also been speculated that the new product could be a digital version of the View-Master, updated for the 21st century.

The Google-Mattel press conference will take place in New York City on February 13.