It seems that ASUS is looking at launching its very own smartphone based off Google’s Project Tango AR (Augmented Reality) like the Lenovo Phab 2 Pro during CES 2017 in Las Vegas.
ASUS CEO Jerry Shen has confirmed that the company is looking to be the second commercial manufacturer that has produced and will sell a smartphone powered by Google Tango software during the Consumer & Electronic Show or CES 2017 which is being held during early January next year.
Shen did hold himself back a bit, refusing to give the specifications of the device but instead he assured the folks over at the DigiTimes that the new Zenfone AR will come with advanced functionality and performance compared to first-generation Project Tango-based phone, whilst also ensuring the cost doesn’t burn a pretty massive hole in your wallet at the end of the day. This direct quote takes aim at its competitor, the Lenovo Phab 2 Pro which went on sale in the USA on November 1st for USD$499 (approximately AUD$662.84 – ouch!)
Project Tango is an advanced mobile technology from Google that enables augmented reality (AR) gaming and utilities in a smartphone. It is mainly used to provide and enhance 3D-based GPS navigation system whilst also providing an Augmented Reality gaming experience which basically allows the gamer to be able to play character games using their own house as the gaming arena.
Another thing that AR smartphones and tablets are able to do is to have the ability to provide a more immersive e-shopping experience and this is something that some retailers both here and mainly overseas are looking at.
Not only will ASUS plan to unveil the Zenfone AR at CES 2017, but also the Zenfone 4 series and VR (Virtual Reality) headgears with built-in cameras, sensors and controllers in the second and third quarter of 2017 according to the same reports from DigiTimes.
We will be keeping a close eye out for any further developments regarding the Zenfone AR both before and during CES 2017 and we will be bringing you our readers the very latest news, launches and everything else from CES 2017 right here on Ausdroid.
“(approximately AUD$662.84 – ouch!)”
For the amount of hardware included in the device, the quantity of lenses and requirements, I hardly think its an ouch price. Plus, with Lenovo HQ in Australia refusing to even assist customers with getting one into the country, despite its band compatibility, its almost not worth mentioning the AUD.
I am however excited at the prospect of an alternative and thank you for the article.