Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.
The Lenovo Phab 2 Pro won’t be remembered for its confident, yet familiar design, or its gorgeous 2K display. As competent as it is at basically everything it sets out to do, its legacy is all thanks to Google. It is, after all, the first Tango phone. But, to Lenovo’s credit, there’s a lot to like here.
Who's this for?
For those who want to be on the cutting-edge of mobile AR technology. If that’s not a big deal to you, the Phab 2 Pro is still a decent value as a standalone phone, so long as you can gel with its equally tremendous size.
Should you buy it?
The Phab 2 Pro, even without Tango to lift it up, is a sure sign that Lenovo is finally serious about smartphones.
And, while it will won’t convert flagship loyalists, Lenovo was right to hone in on building a phone that hits a mid-range price point, and impresses with a stand-out feature.
Given our experience, it’s tough to imagine Tango breaking into the mainstream anytime soon (if ever), but the potential is there, and ultimately, that’s Google’s problem to solve.
All said, if you’re in the market for a capable tablet that masquerades as a phone, and smitten with the $499 (£499) price tag, you’ll squeeze a lot of enjoyment out of this AR-ready phone.
If not, there are plenty of other, more streamlined alternatives in that price range, like the OnePlus 3T and ZTE Axon 7.
US border surveillance towers face significant operational failures — vast areas unwatched, national security potentially at risk
Reviews Recap: the week’s 5 biggest reviews, from Nothing’s novel new open-ear buds to a Blu-ray-besting movie player
Chinese flagship phones are great value for money, but they won't stay cheaper for much longer – here's why
