Lenovo, Google Collaborate On Project Tango; Smartphone Launch Likely This Summer

Lenovo announced on Thursday the development of the first consumer mobile device with Project Tango in collaboration with Google, at the CES 2016. Google's "Project Tango" is a depth-sensing camera setup that the tech giant has been prototyping in special developer hardware for quite some time now, explains Ars Technica.

"Lenovo, Google, and Qualcomm Technologies are working closely together to optimize the software and hardware to ensure consumers get the most out of the Project Tango platform," the online post read.

Project Tango is a technology platform that uses advanced computer vision, depth sensing, and motion tracking to create on-screen 3D experiences, allowing users to explore their physical environments via their device. The announcement also revealed the next step of the project – a consumer-targeted smartphone that will be available in the US and other countries this summer for "less than $500."

"With Project Tango, the smartphone becomes a magic window into the physical world by enabling it to perceive space and motion that goes beyond the boundaries of a touch screen," said Johnny Lee, Project Tango Lead, Google. "By working with Lenovo, we'll be able to make Project Tango more accessible to users and developers."

According to Lenovo, the Tango phone, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, will run Android and will have a screen size greater than 6.0 inches and smaller than 6.5 inches.

Interested developers have until February 15 to submit their Project Tango app proposals for a chance to win funding and the chance to have their app featured on Lenovo’s upcoming smartphone.

"To break new ground in today's hypercompetitive smartphone and tablet industries, we must take innovation risks - it's the only way to truly change the way people use mobile technology," says Chen Xudong, senior vice president and president, Mobile Business Group, Lenovo. "Together with Google we're breaking down silos by working across mobile hardware and software. Turning our shared vision into reality will create a more holistic product experience that captures the imagination of today's consumer."