Lenovo is already one of the leaders when it comes to augmented reality thanks to its involvement with Tango and the launch of its Lenovo Phab2 Pro. However, it now seems as though the company is looking to enter another new and emerging market, virtual reality and this time with the help of the Google Daydream hardware and software platform. The platform, which was only announced a few months back gives smartphone manufacturers the ability to bring virtual reality to users via their devices.
In an interview with Jeff Meredith, Lenovo’s General Manager and Vice President of its Android and Chrome Computing Business Group, Meredith confirmed that the company has “some Daydream products on the roadmap.” However, that confirmation did not provide any further detail on what those products are. Although, it probably is safe to assume the products will include a smartphone and/or a VR headset which comply with all of Google’s strict requirements for the Daydream platform that is based on Android 7.0 (Nougat). As part of the requirements, devices will need to feature powerful processors, high-resolution displays, and specialized sensors, while VR headsets will need extra tracking sensors. All of these requirements will then allow users to roam cities in 3D with Google Street View, view Netflix and Hulu shows, and play 360-degree games.
As was also confirmed by Meredith, Android is a vital part of Lenovo’s future, which is why the company is working so closely with Google to bring projects like the Tango-enabled Lenovo Phab2 Pro and its upcoming Google Daydream devices to the masses. As of now, there are no Google Daydream devices available on the market, so if Lenovo is quick enough, they may well be one of the first companies to launch Daydream devices, much like they were with Tango.
Lenovo does have some competition already though, with companies such as Samsung, Xiaomi, LG, Huawei, Alcatel, HTC, ZTE, Asus, Qualcomm and more all helping to develop Google Daydream devices. Regarding which companies will be bringing content to the Daydream platform, the list so far includes EA, HBO Now, Hulu, Netflix, and more. Though this list is sure to increase over time. As of now, there is no release date for Lenovo’s VR products, but with Google’s Daydream platform supposedly making its debut soon, it might not be too long until a device is made official.