14 DAY TRIAL // Amazon has been long rumored to plan the launch of its own series of mobile phones, and some more info on the company’s intentions on the matter has emerged today.
Apparently, the giant is planning the release of at least two smartphones in the not too distant future, namely one flagship featuring a 3D eye-tracking interface, and an affordable, FireOS-based device.
Initially built under “Project B,” Amazon’s expensive model is said to have had its codename changed to Duke and then Smith a while ago, and to be set for launch only next year.
According to report from Hacker News, Amazon plans on packing the handset with a 3D interface, though the screen of the smartphone won’t be 3D.
However, the device might sport 4 cameras, each placed at a corner, destined to track users’ eyes at all times, so as to move the interface around and offer the impression of 3D.
The UI won’t move based on what the handset’s internal sensors dictate, but will monitor changes in users’ point of view instead, as TechCrunch notes.
Apparently, Amazon has been also testing software that would enable the smartphone to recognize users’ face and ignore other faces around.
On top of that, the phone might arrive with an image recognition feature that would allow users to snap shots of objects in real life and have them matched with products available for purchase on Amazon.
The smartphone should also include a fifth camera on the back, destined for taking photos. All in all, the phone could prove quite expensive due to the inclusion of so many sensors, though they will certainly set it apart from other handsets.
No details on the operating system loaded on this device have been provided as of now, but it is expected to be a heavily customized flavor of Android.
The second Amazon smartphone should be an affordable device that will actually arrive on shelves first, maybe before the end of this year.
Apparently, Amazon is currently moving these devices internally inside a locked metal case, having only the screen visible. Employees are not allowed to take them outside the building.
No specific info on when the two smartphones will become official has been provided as of now, though it might not be too long before Amazon decides to announce them. What remains to be seen is whether the features mentioned above will indeed make it inside the final versions of the handsets.