The Lenovo PHAB2 Pro, the world’s first smartphone based on Google’s Project Tango technology, will finally go on sale this November. It was unveiled earlier this year at Lenovo Tech World conference in June 2016. With Google’s Project Tango 3D depth sensing technology, the PHAB2 Pro can scan its surroundings in 3D, creating depth-based maps to augment reality, and can even be used in AR gaming. Unlike VR, which is a virtually synthesised world, augmented reality merges virtual objects over real world scenarios.
Google’s head of VR, Clay Bavor, confirmed to CNET that the device will go on sale this November. According to the report, the PHAB2 Pro would retail at around $499 (Rs. 33,250 approximately). The highest variant of the Lenovo PHAB2 Pro is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 652 SoC, along with a large, 6.4-inch IPS LCD display with screen resolution of 2560×1440 pixels. It comes with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage. There is a 4050mAh battery, and an 8MP front camera. On the rear, the PHAB2 Pro has a 16MP camera with phase detection autofocus, depth sensing and motion tracking sensors. These sensors, powered by the ISP and DSP, can quickly process and time stamp sensor data simultaneously, allowing the phone to create a 3D experience.
While the Lenovo PHAB2 Pro has integrated Project Tango technology, it won’t support Google’s newly-launched Daydream View VR headset. Only Google's Pixel phones are Daydream compatible at the moment, and Google is also working closely with other mobile manufacturers to bring Daydream VR compatibility to more devices. We expect the Daydream VR headset to launch within a few weeks of the Pixel's launch in India. Preorders for the Google Pixel phones begin October 13, and prices start at Rs. 57,000.