Skip to main content

Google’s Project Tango just became much more affordable, but it’s still invite-only

google cuts project tango tablet price
Image used with permission by copyright holder
Remember Google’s 3D-mapping tablet, Project Tango? It seems like ages ago when Google announced the developer kit, which can only be purchased by invitation. Well, some lucky invitees received an email letting them know they can purchase the tablet, but at a much lower price point.

Reported by Android Police, the email reveals the Project Tango tablet is being offered for $512, a significant discount from the tablet’s initial $1,024 price point. More interesting, however, is that the email also states Google is preparing to “open up sales more broadly.”

Recommended Videos

This could mean Google simply has more units from the hardware manufacturer to pass around, and plans to send out even more invitations to purchase Project Tango. Of course, this could also mean Google is getting close to commercial availability for the tablet, since the company announced last June that it will work with LG to create a consumer version of Project Tango.

Last time we checked Project Tango, it was powered by the Nvidia Tegra K1 processor, backed up by 4GB of RAM. You’ll also find 128GB of internal storage and a 1080p display. The tablet also offers 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Even by today’s standards, these are pretty beefy specifications, though the tablet’s calling card is its two rear cameras, each inserted at a 13-degree angle. These cameras, along with the depth sensor, allow the tablet to accurately map a 3D space.

Most recently, Google moved Project Tango from the Advanced Technology and Projects Group (ATAP) to a new home within the company, suggesting Google is happy with where the tablet currently stands.

Williams Pelegrin
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Williams is an avid New York Yankees fan, speaks Spanish, resides in Colorado, and has an affinity for Frosted Flakes. Send…
My favorite smartphone camera of 2024 isn’t made by Apple or Google
A person holding the Xiaomi 14 Ultra.

When I needed to take photos of a car for a series of stories this month, only one phone came to mind, and it wasn’t one of the top devices made by Google, Samsung, or Apple. It’s the fantastic Xiaomi 14 Ultra, and over the course of a few days, it cemented its place as my favorite camera phone of 2024. Here’s why.
Why is it the best?
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

I already held the Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s camera in high regard after having reviewed the phone and tested it out against other cameras. I especially loved the versatility of the brilliant Photography Kit accessory. But most of this happened earlier on in the year before other brands had the chance to release serious competitors. I knew I had to give it another try, just to be sure of my feelings.

Read more
If you have this Apple Watch charger, stop using it immediately. Here’s why
Belkin Boostcharge Pro.

If you own a Belkin wireless charger for your Apple Watch, it's important to be aware of a recent recall. Belkin is voluntarily recalling its BoostCharge Pro Fast Wireless Charger for Apple Watch + Power Bank 10K due to potential overheating issues that could pose a fire hazard.

This recall affects all units of the Belkin BoostCharge Pro Fast Wireless Charger for Apple Watch + Power Bank 10K, identified by model number BPD005. If you own one of these chargers, you are eligible for a full refund. While no injuries have been reported, Belkin cautions that a manufacturing defect may cause the charger's lithium cell component to overheat.
What you should do if you have the charger
If you happen to own the charger in question, don't panic. Here are a few simple steps you can take to ensure you handle it safely.

Read more
Samsung’s trifold foldable might launch in 2025, and we can’t wait
The hinge on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6.

Last month, we first heard whispers of a potential trifold phone from Samsung. The leak came from a source with a reputable track record, but now another source corroborates the information and gives it even more credibility.

Leaker Yeux1122 posted on Naver, sort of the Google of South Korea, that Samsung has the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Fold 7 FE,  and a trifold Fold 7 variant slated for release in 2025. The Fold 7 and Fold 7 FE are expected to launch at the same time, but there's no firm timeline for the rumored trifold.

Read more