Lenovo Designs Yoga A12 Android Hybrid PC for Business Users

Lenovo is enticing enterprise users with the Yoga A12 two-in-one hybrid PC, which runs the Android mobile OS and provides access to the Google G Suite productivity apps.

The first thing new Yoga A12 owners will discover is that the device is running on Android. Most hybrid devices run either Microsoft’s Windows or Google’s other operating system, Chrome OS. In a statement, Lenovo said the Android inclusion should allow for both “mobility” and “productivity.”

Many of the Android devices on the market are powered by ARM-based processors, but the Yoga A12 runs on the Intel Atom x5 processor. It’s complemented by 2GB of memory and 32GB of storage. Lenovo didn’t share details on its graphics performance.

Lenovo is trying to differentiate the Yoga A12 from other similar devices by calling it a tablet. But, the A12 is more accurately described as a two-in-one hybrid that can work as either as a tablet or a notebook. It includes a keyboard that can be folder under so users can use the device as a tablet or propped up for tent mode. The Yoga A12 also can be used in presentation mode by using the keyboard as a base.

The Lenovo Yoga A12’s display is average compared to other models, measuring 12.2 inches and offering only HD, not full-HD or 4K resolution. It includes two speakers with Dolby Atmos support, which should suffice for most personal and business uses.

The Android OS running on Yoga A12 is not the stock version. Users will find a “hybrid user interface” that Lenovo said is designed to improve user productivity. Users also have access to the Google Productivity Suite.

The Lenovo Yoga A12 ships with a Halo keyboard—a flat, touch-screen keyboard that delivers haptic feedback in the form of vibrations whenever a virtual key is pressed. It’s also a smart keyboard that “learns” how a user types and can make predictions while the user is typing.

When it comes to battery life, Lenovo’s Yoga A12 should get the job done. Lenovo promises 13 hours of battery life on a single charge, based on standard use at both work and home.

Google Play marketplace comes bundled with the computer, giving users access to more than 2 million apps. And because this is Android, users also can bundle their custom applications into the device and run them with ease.

Users looking for multiple ports on the Yoga A12 will be disappointed. The A12 ships with a charging port and little else.

Lenovo’s Yoga A12 is slated for availability starting Feb. 8 on Lenovo.com and Amazon.com. Its price starts at $299.