Lenovo, Google join hands to launch new smartphone

Lenovo is also inviting developers to help grow the budding Project Tango app ecosystem.

Chinese computing giant Lenovo on Friday said it has partnered with Google to launch a new smartphone that can see and map out surroundings with help from the US-based company's 3D technology named Project Tango.

To be available in summer 2016, the new smartphone turns the screen into a window that can overlay digital information and objects onto the real world.

Google's 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 environment via their device.

"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," Chen Xudong, senior VP and president,  mobile business group, Lenovo said.

Together with Google, Lenovo is breaking down silos by working across mobile hardware and software, he added.

Interestingly, Lenovo had acquired Motorola Mobility from Google in late 2014, though the Internet giant retained the mobile firm's Advanced Technology and Projects (ATAP) group.

As part of the partnership, Lenovo is also inviting developers to help grow the budding Project Tango app ecosystem.

Developers can submit their Project Tango app proposals to win funding and getting the app featured on Lenovo's upcoming smartphone. The submission period closes on February 15.

Johnny Lee, Project Tango Lead at Google, said that by working with Lenovo, Google will be able to make Project Tango more accessible to users and developers all over the world.