Lenovo Yoga 2 and Yoga 2 Pro tablets outed in India

What is Lenovo Yoga 2 and Yoga 2 Pro Tablet?

The Lenovo Yoga 2 and Yoga 2 Pro tablets debuted in India in October 2014, introducing a revolutionary cylindrical design with an integrated kickstand. Available in 8-inch, 10.1-inch, and flagship 13.3-inch Pro models, these Android tablets offered unprecedented versatility through their unique four-mode functionality: Hold, Tilt, Stand, and Hang modes.

The standout Yoga 2 Pro features a built-in pico projector capable of displaying 50+ inch images, making it one of the first consumer tablets with integrated projection technology. Powered by Intel Atom processors and running Android 4.4 KitKat, these tablets emphasize multimedia capabilities with exceptional battery life, front-facing stereo speakers, and vibrant IPS displays.

Key Features of Lenovo Yoga 2 Tablets

Innovative Four-Mode Design: The cylindrical hinge enables Hold, Tilt, Stand, and Hang modes, adapting to any situation. The kickstand provides stable viewing angles and can hook onto walls for hands-free operation.

Extended Battery Life: The 9600mAh battery delivers up to 17 hours of continuous use and nearly three days under mixed usage, positioning the Yoga 2 among the longest-lasting tablets available.

Superior Audio: Front-facing stereo speakers deliver 90 decibels output. The Yoga 2 Pro features an 8W JBL system with 5W subwoofer, Dolby Audio, and Wolfson Master Hi-Fi technology.

Built-in Projector (Pro): The 13.3-inch model includes an integrated pico projector displaying content up to 50+ inches, ideal for presentations and entertainment.

High-Quality Displays: The 10.1-inch features 1920×1200 Full HD IPS, while the Pro boasts 2560×1440 QHD+ on 13.3 inches, providing exceptional clarity.

Intel Processing: Quad-core Intel Atom Z3745 processors at 1.86GHz offer robust multitasking and better compatibility with certain applications.

Expandable Storage: MicroSD support up to 64GB supplements the 16GB or 32GB internal storage for extensive media libraries.

What’s New in Yoga 2 Series

The Yoga 2 refined the original design with a slimmer cylindrical profile and improved kickstand mechanism. Display quality upgraded to Full HD standard with better color accuracy and brightness. Processing power increased with Intel quad-core Atom processors, enabling smoother multitasking and better gaming performance.

The audio system received a complete overhaul with JBL partnership and Dolby Audio integration. Front-facing speakers project sound toward users, while the cylindrical design creates natural bass resonance. Camera capabilities improved with 8MP rear sensors offering better low-light performance.

The Yoga 2 Pro’s integrated projector represented unprecedented innovation, offering 50-lumen projection for displays up to 50 inches, opening new presentation and entertainment possibilities.

System Requirements and Specifications

Yoga 2 (10.1-inch): 10.1″ IPS 1920×1200 display, Intel Atom Z3745 quad-core 1.86GHz, 2GB RAM, 16/32GB storage (expandable to 64GB), Android 4.4, 8MP/1.6MP cameras, 9600mAh battery, dual front speakers with Dolby Audio, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/3G, 630g weight.

Yoga 2 Pro (13.3-inch): 13.3″ IPS 2560×1440 display, Intel Atom Z3745, 2GB RAM, 32GB storage (expandable), Android 4.4, 8MP/1.6MP cameras, 9600mAh battery, 8W JBL audio with 5W subwoofer, integrated projector (50+ inch), Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/3G/4G, 950g weight.

Setup Guide

Initial Setup: Power on and follow the setup wizard to select language, connect Wi-Fi, and sign in with Google account (5-10 minutes).

System Updates: Navigate to Settings > About Tablet > System Updates for firmware and security patches.

Essential Apps: Download Lenovo Companion, Lenovo Settings, MX Player, Office Suite, and VLC Media Player from Google Play Store.

Projector Setup (Pro): Access via hardware button or quick settings. Position 3-6 feet from light-colored walls. Adjust focus using focus ring. Optimize in Settings > Display > Projector Settings. Best results in dimly lit rooms.

Data Transfer: Connect via micro-USB, select “File Transfer” mode to access storage and transfer files.

Yoga 2 vs Alternative Tablets

vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S 10.5: Samsung offers superior AMOLED display, but Yoga 2 delivers longer battery (17h vs 9h), louder speakers, and versatile kickstand at lower cost.

vs Apple iPad Air 2: iPad features premium build, faster processor, and better app ecosystem but costs 2-3x more. Yoga 2 provides better value with expandable storage, kickstand, and longer battery.

vs ASUS Transformer Pad: ASUS focuses on productivity with keyboard dock. Yoga 2 emphasizes media with superior speakers and kickstand. Choose based on primary use case.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional 17-hour battery life
• Innovative four-mode kickstand design
• Outstanding front-facing stereo audio
• Vibrant Full HD/QHD+ IPS displays
• Integrated projector (Pro model)
• Excellent value pricing
• Expandable storage via microSD
• Comfortable ergonomic grip

Cons:

• Heavy compared to ultra-thin competitors (950g Pro)
• Limited to Android 4.4 KitKat
• Only 2GB RAM limits heavy multitasking
• Adequate but not exceptional cameras
• Cylindrical design complicates flat storage
• Projector requires darkened rooms (50 lumens)
• Potential Intel x86 app compatibility issues
• Glossy screen prone to fingerprints

Who Should Use Lenovo Yoga 2

Media Enthusiasts: Ideal for hours of movies and videos with exceptional battery, vibrant display, and stereo speakers. Kickstand eliminates awkward hand-holding.

Budget-Conscious Buyers: Maximum value with premium features at mid-range prices – 80% of premium capabilities at 40-50% cost.

Presenters (Pro): Teachers, sales professionals, and business users benefit from integrated projection for presentations without separate equipment.

Families: Durable build, loud speakers, and long battery make it excellent for shared family use across various scenarios.

Not Ideal For: Power users needing latest Android, serious mobile gamers, professional photographers, or those prioritizing ultra-lightweight designs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can Yoga 2 be updated to newer Android?
A: Officially limited to Android 4.4 with security updates only. Major version upgrades weren’t released, though custom ROMs may exist.

Q: How bright is the Pro’s projector?
A: 50 lumens adequate for darkened rooms but struggles in bright environments. Use 3-6 feet from light-colored surfaces.

Q: Does kickstand rotate 360 degrees?
A: No, four distinct preset modes cover most use cases with some angle adjustment in Stand mode.

Q: Can I use while charging?
A: Yes, full functionality maintained. 10W charging takes 4-5 hours for complete charge.

Q: Are Windows versions available?
A: Yes, 8″ and 10″ models offered Windows 8.1 versions. The 13.3″ Pro was Android-exclusive.

Q: How does Hang mode work?
A: Kickstand features hook cutout for hanging on nails, hooks, or cabinet handles for hands-free viewing.

Final Verdict

The Lenovo Yoga 2 and Yoga 2 Pro tablets made significant impact by demonstrating that innovative design genuinely enhances usability. The cylindrical battery hinge and four-mode system address real scenarios where flat tablets prove awkward.

For media consumption, the series excels with vibrant displays, exceptionally loud speakers, and industry-leading 17-hour battery life. The Yoga 2 Pro’s integrated projector represents genuine innovation, offering 50-inch display capability for presentations and entertainment despite 50-lumen brightness limitations.

However, compromises appear in 2GB RAM, Android 4.4 KitKat, and adequate cameras. Intel Atom processors handle everyday tasks but lag contemporary ARM chipsets. The innovative design trades slimness for functionality, adding thickness and weight.

At Indian pricing (Rs. 20,990-26,999 for standard models, Rs. 49,990 for Pro), the Yoga 2 delivered exceptional value with premium features at mid-range prices. Years later, they remain viable for media consumption despite no longer receiving updates. On the used market, they represent excellent value for secondary devices.

The Yoga 2 series succeeded in delivering distinctive, well-designed tablets prioritizing practical functionality over specifications. They carved out a niche by offering useful innovations at accessible prices. The fundamental philosophy – tablets should adapt to users – remains relevant and commendable.