A new report by the Wall Street Journal [via Apple blog 9to5mac] suggests that Amazon is looking to take a deeper dive into the hardware pool. The report mentions that Amazon is looking to bolster its hardware roster by producing two smartphones–one of which is a high-end 3D imaging device with retina-tracking technology–as well as an audio streaming device, and possibly a competitor to Apple’s iTV. Amazon currently manufactures the Kindle tablet series.
The supposed high-end smartphone may feature a screen that allows for 3-D images without glasses. Using retina-tracking technology, images on the smartphone would seem to float in typical 3D style. Users could also have the ability to navigate through content on their device simply using just their eyes instead of the usual touchscreen.
The report only briefly mentions the possible audio streaming and alleged iTV competitor, though it does note that the Kindle tablets all run on Android’s operating system. It is likely, therefore, that any other device by Amazon would similarly use the latest Android OS.
As for a release timeline for each respective device? the WSJ says a launch in the near-future is likely, though not a priority at the moment.
“Though Amazon has goals of releasing some of these devices in coming months, these people cautioned that some or all of the devices could be shelved because of performance, financial or other concerns.”
Retina-tracking technology appears to be the latest fad among smartphone makers, as well as popularized imaging tech in smartphone cameras. However, retina-tracking tech isn’t currently relevant in contemporary smartphones, or even on the near horizon for upcoming devices, though it could be the go-to for phones in the coming years.
What do you all think of Amazon’s push to be a more hands-on hardware producer? Will their rumored retina-tracking tech boom or bust? Do you think Amazon should’ve made this leap a while ago or are you content with simply buying its Kindle? Let us know what you think in the comments section below.
