Google is continuing its journey in revolutionizing what can be done with mobile devices. Its latest plan involves the manufacturing of 4,000 prototype tablets starting next month. The tablets would be Google’s second step in a recent research effort, dubbed Project Tango, where devices would come with 3D space modeling/mapping technology. Project Tango is part of Google’s Advanced Technology and Project (ATAP) program; also part of Motorola Mobility. The program first released a prototype back in February. Equipped with a set of sensors, including a depth sensor, gyroscropes, two cameras, orientation sensors, and a vision-processing system. Project Tango-enabled devices will open up a variety of possibilities for mobile applications; ultimately using aspects of virtual reality.

The point is to have detailed, accurate 3D mapping of one’s surroundings via “smart sensors”. Such devices could be incorporated into robots; some of which have already been used to experiment with NASA’s SPEHERES robots, which have been designed to float around at the International Space Station (ISS) to assist astronauts by mapping their environment.

The new Google “Tango Tablet” would have a “7-inch screen, two back cameras, infrared depth sensors and advanced software that can capture precise three-dimensional images of objects”. Besides helping robots map their environment at the ISS, the smartphone and the tablet could be also used to help the visually impaired navigate their environment due to its ability to provide step-by-step directions.

First, Google is expected to initially provide a number of these tablets that it will furnish to developers, who then can “translate the technology into practical applications”. Encouraging second and third parties to experiment with apps in the real world is the way this project will come out strong. Anything from a simple multiplayer version of laser tag, to a ‘spatial diff’ check app, which could allow the user to determine what is different in a specific room or area, could be possible. The latter of the two, could work especially well for something like interior decorating! It’s the ability to utilize virtual reality that is built into a hand-held gadget!