Sony has officially unveiled two tablet devices, currently codenamed S1 and S2, which are set for release later this year.
The logically titled Sony Tablet will come in two flavours: the S1 is “optimised for rich media entertainment” while the dual-screen S2 is “ideal for mobile communication and entertainment.” Both devices will run on the Android 3.0 operating system and feature WiFi, 3G and 4G compatibility.
The S1 mimics the iPad display, with a single 9.4 inch screen on a device that, with its off-centre of gravity design, Sony says offers “stability and ease of grip as well as a sense of stability and lightness, offering comfortable use for hours.”
The S2 tablet opens to reveal two 5.5 inch displays which can either be used separately or combined to form one large screen.
Both tablets will support the software download platform PlayStation Suite, opening them up to classic PSOne titles as well as original content, as well as the Qriocity music streaming service and ebook downloads from the Reader Store. In addition both can be used as universal remote controls for Bravia TVs.
Andy Rubin, Google’s senior VP of mobile, said: “Android 3.0 is a new version of the Android platform with a new holographic user interface that is designed from the ground up for devices with larger screen sizes, particularly tablets. I'm excited about Sony Tablet as it will further spur the development of applications and network offerings which users are looking for.”
The announcement proves right reports from February that Sony was at work on a tablet, codenamed S1, running on Android 3.0 and supporting PlayStation Suite, with a more ergonomic design than that of Apple’s runaway market leader, iPad.
Source: Sony