Google is reportedly developing a new tablet as a part of its secretive Project Tango and will have advanced 3D imaging software and two rear cameras.
The tablet is expected to be released at the end of June, before the company’s annual developers conference, according to a person familiar with the development. The Wall Street Journal was the first to report that the device will be equipped with two rear cameras, infrared depth sensors and software than can capture precise three-dimensional images of objects.
The project is being developed under Google’s Advanced Technology and Projects group, which released a smartphone earlier this year with similar sensors, designed to create a three-dimensional map of a user’s surroundings.
As with the limited release of the smartphone, Google plans to develop only 4,000 of the seven-inch prototype tablets.
“It is critical to open the new technology to developers first as the key is how you can translate the technology into practical applications,” said Bryan Ma, an analyst at research firm IDC.
Rajeev Chand, head of research at Rutberg & Co., said that currently the technology is far ahead of the applications available in the market. But he did say he was optimistic that the application will catch up given the advances in imaging technology.
Google has been known to let its developers to experiment with new devices and technology giving them time to develop application that will appeal to consumers. The company had a limited release of Glass, under its Explorer program, which has given developers an opportunity to create relevant applications.
UPI