Android Tablets

[Jason]

Anybody interested in these things? Here's a preview of the Samsung Galaxy Tab (http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/02/samsung-galaxy-tab-preview/). I thought one might be an interesting gift to give my niece for Christmas if the price isn't too high.

[digitalErich]

TechCrunch has a video up on it and while I haven't had time to watch it, the headline seems to suggest they were impressed.

[biosc1]

Yah, I'm hoping this Christmas sees some good releases. The first to market ones haven't been great, but they are coming fast now, with Archos just releasing a bunch as well.

[Vandabo]

I really want a tablet like an iPad but I'd much rather have Android on it. With full access to the marketplace. I read this article that had a ton of "iPad alternatives" but none of them seem to really have the necessary features to be comparable, or are super expensive if they do.

[Jason]

Yeah, I'm looking to get one for my niece as something to take the place of the cheap netbook she was given last year by her dad and stepmom. But I don't want to spend Ipad prices on it. And I might pick up one for myself if they work great.

[txshurricane]

Would love an Android tablet. Can't wait to see the market competition.

[hunterx280]

I'm really hoping the Android game market starts to pick up. While they have some pretty decent little games, it could really use some more attention. Here's hoping cross platform with iPhone so we can get some of the more popular games.

If you take games out of the equation, I'm much more intrigued by an Android tablet than I am with the iPad.

[J Arcane]

Gameloft has been porting games to Android, and apparently most of them aren't too bad, but the problem is for some reason no one can determine and they refuse to supply, they refuse to use Market, instead selling them through an awful web store that doesn't even let you re-download apps.

[KidCactus]

According to Samsung Sweden's press release, the MRP for the Galaxy Tab in Sweden is 9000 SEK (about $1240). That is just insane. :eek:

[hunterx280]

According to Samsung Sweden's press release, the MRP for the Galaxy Tab in Sweden is 9000 SEK (about $1240). That is just insane. :eek:

God, if that's the case, this makes the iPad look like a steal. Hopefully that's just Sweden and they figure out that it won't sell very well at that price in the US. Also, how much does an iPad go for in Sweden?

[RandoM51]

Somebody say android tablets?

http://i55.tinypic.com/axe7t1.jpg

[KidCactus]

Also, how much does an iPad go for in Sweden?
The iPad isn't available here yet, but I assume it will be about $690 for the $499 one.

[hunterx280]

Oh man, the price isn't looking good.

http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/02/samsung-galaxy-tab-reported-to-retail-at-699-and-799-in-europe/

[Voodoo]

While I find my Nexus extremely useful, I have yet to think of a use of a tablet I may purchase. Maybe someone could fill me in on what I'm not grasping?

[hunterx280]

While I find my Nexus extremely useful, I have yet to think of a use of a tablet I may purchase. Maybe someone could fill me in on what I'm not grasping?

E-book reader, comic book reader, portable gaming, movies, internet. All in one slim package.

EDIT: Also, to live out your Star Trek fantasies.

http://i729.photobucket.com/albums/ww296/hunterx280/2373-padd-blazeofglory.jpg

[burger]

While I find my Nexus extremely useful, I have yet to think of a use of a tablet I may purchase. Maybe someone could fill me in on what I'm not grasping?

Anytime I've ever been in bed or on the couch or traveling around and I've had to lug around or use my notebook I've been like "man I wish I had something thinner and lighter". ;)

The only time my notebook doesn't seem like a tank is when I set it up on my desk at work. Then it's more like a desktop machine with the benefit of it being mine and not the property of my employer. Otherwise it's too big to be considered portable and convenient. Netbooks solve some of those problems but even those aren't as streamline as a tablet.

I routinely use my iPhone on the couch, in bed or in the home theater. A tablet would provide a larger screen.

Can't wait to get one!

[muddi900]

E-book reader, comic book reader, portable gaming, movies, internet. All in one slim package.


Yeah, my phone does all that. And better.

Also, the UK price is 700 GBP. I have a hard time not laughing. I can't believe someone could make a device as useless as an ipad and make it more expensive.

[burger]

Yeah, my phone does all that. And better.

Your phone has a 9.7" screen?

Awesome!!! Make and model please.

[hunterx280]

Yeah, my phone does all that. And better.

Also, the UK price is 700 GBP. I have a hard time not laughing. I can't believe someone could make a device as useless as an ipad and make it more expensive.

As does mine but a larger screen is nice, especially for comics and reading. I've tried reading on a phone sized screen and it's not as nice as looking at something about the size of a book or trade paperback. I find it some what unpleasant. Not that I'm going to be buying one any time soon. I'm waiting for the market to mature.

[Siraris]

If companies just port Android to a tablet looking device, it will fail before it even arrives. The iPad is not just a giant iPhone.

It will be interesting to see what Gingerbread and Honeycomb bring.

[hunterx280]

If companies just port Android to a tablet looking device, it will fail before it even arrives. The iPad is not just a giant iPhone.

Could you elaborate?

[burger]

Could you elaborate?

What he means is that the iPad doesn't have front or back cameras and has less memory so it's not just a giant iPhone since it does less ;)

[muddi900]

Could you elaborate?

The os was revamped for the bigger screen. And the approval process means that apps are to. All those archos tablets just throw the vanilla android on to it.

BTW, I thought reading books on a phone was cumbersome too. Until I did, and its awesome. The only problem is larger paragraphs. Sometimes you just get a gigantic wall of text, but it is ok.

As for comic books, I read my first comic on a 17" LCD monitor. Tablets are a step down.

[burger]

As for comic books, I read my first comic on a 17" LCD monitor. Tablets are a step down.

Again the obvious response is try lugging your 17" monitor into bed.

When I'm in bed at night I do a ton of surfing....I don't want to lug my desktop in there...my notebook is large, hot and heavy....my iPhone is way too small.

Tablets aren't a gimmick or some hair brained idea. ;)

There are countless people who want something with a large screen that is portable but not bulky....tablets for the win

[J Arcane]

The os was revamped for the bigger screen.

Didn't seem very revamped to me. They even limit you to the same number of desktop icons per page, despite the screen being orders of magnitude larger.

It looks dumb, and it's extremely inefficient! Two bonuses in 1!

[pomeroy]

It will be interesting to see what Gingerbread and Honeycomb bring.

God, the codenames for Android are so lame. It's like someone at Google really, really likes Strawberry Shortcake.

[Vandabo]

I don't know why some people are so obtuse in seeing the use for some thing the size of an iPad or Kindle that can do most of what a netbook can do. I love my Kindle. It is the perfect size to still have tons of portability and a big enough screen to read a website or book or watch media, and have a spacious touchscreen keyboard.

I have a netbook and an android phone. I want something in between.

[destoo]

When I'm in bed at night (...)I don't want to lug(...) is large, hot and heavy(...)is way too small.

Nothing to add here. Carry on.

[PathMaster]

Priced themselves out of competition as far as I can tell currently. Granted, the US may get a different and perhaps better price, but I doubt it.

[muddi900]

Again the obvious response is try lugging your 17" monitor into bed.

When I'm in bed at night I do a ton of surfing....I don't want to lug my desktop in there...my notebook is large, hot and heavy....my iPhone is way too small.

Tablets aren't a gimmick or some hair brained idea. ;)

There are countless people who want something with a large screen that is portable but not bulky....tablets for the win

Since we are talking comics specifically, I find that rotating the device constantly is not that fun at all. I'd rather have my heavy laptop. The portability is nice but the screen is just to small.

Didn't seem very revamped to me. They even limit you to the same number of desktop icons per page, despite the screen being orders of magnitude larger.

It looks dumb, and it's extremely inefficient! Two bonuses in 1!

Well, you can view the home screen on landscape, that is cool!:)
The lame inefficient home screen is a problem with the OS it self. It was originally designed in a vacuum, and while it did reap its benefits, it still lack some basic functionality, like sending files over bluetooth and the aforementioned.

But Apple did actual work on it. The revised certain permissions and added support for peripherals. The archos tablets are just a vanilla android, without the market.

Priced themselves out of competition as far as I can tell currently. Granted, the US may get a different and perhaps better price, but I doubt it.

Considering the peripheral price with the 3G models of ipad, the rumored UK price is still 100 pounds more for the 16GB model. And the screen is smaller.

[Xerxes]

What he means is that the iPad doesn't have front or back cameras and has less memory so it's not just a giant iPhone since it does less ;)

Score!

I like what they should of the tab. Not liking that rumored price. Shit this thing should run about $350 bucks. But Xerxes, the sell Galaxy S cost $450! Fuck that shit. Cell phones are over priced. It's got a smaller screen than a iPad. Trying to price at the same price is a money loser. Netbook type prices, and over ereaders price is about all they should hope for. I mean even at $400 I might think about it but anything above is out of line.

I don't give a fuck about cell phone plans, deals or being on any cell network. Give me Wifi.

[Jason]

Score!

I like what they should of the tab. Not liking that rumored price. Shit this thing should run about $350 bucks. But Xerxes, the sell Galaxy S cost $450! Fuck that shit. Cell phones are over priced. It's got a smaller screen than a iPad. Trying to price at the same price is a money loser. Netbook type prices, and over ereaders price is about all they should hope for. I mean even at $400 I might think about it but anything above is out of line.

I don't give a fuck about cell phone plans, deals or being on any cell network. Give me Wifi.

That makes me think. Will you have to have a phone plan with these tablets or will you be able to go wifi only? I honestly haven't seen enough about them to know for sure.

[Xerxes]

That makes me think. Will you have to have a phone plan with these tablets or will you be able to go wifi only? I honestly haven't seen enough about them to know for sure.

I think Samsung plans to try cell carriers. This was they can over charge, have the carriers kick them a little extra, and jip all involve. Overpricing for the win!

I doubt the real computer manufacturers intend to do that shit. I'm hoping Samsung realizes this and has a fair priced wifi version.

[muddi900]

It all depends on what Intel/Nokia do with MeeGo.

[PathMaster]

It appears that they will be aiming stateside for only a few hundred with a phone co subsidy. Ugh....Have to see what it will actually provide.

[Xerxes]

It appears that they will be aiming stateside for only a few hundred with a phone co subsidy. Ugh....Have to see what it will actually provide.

So it'll end up costing a slow roasting $250+ over two years. Samsung can get bent. :p

[J Arcane]

I'm just not sure I can see the use in a 7-inch device.

It seems like an odd size.

[Xerxes]

I'm just not sure I can see the use in a 7-inch device.

It seems like an odd size.

True. When I think tablet, I think 9 -12in.

http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q119/Xerionus/thatswhat.jpg

Seriously though... 7 is kind of small, but compared to the 5in devices people are trying to get by with it's not that bad. Problem is, Samsung isn't going to be willing to sell it at the price a 7in tablet should go for. $400 + a contract. That's like $600+. Does think thing have a phone in it? Which could be another level of retarded.

[Xerxes]

On one hand it's $299... On the other hand it's archos.

1tnfPy8mTIE

They even suggest tethering instead of slapping a sim card in it.

Tethering (Using your portable phone as a modem)

Want to be connected anywhere? Just plug your mobile phone equipped with 3.5 G & Bluetooth™ technology, simply pair it up to your ARCHOS 101 internet tablet via Bluetooth™ or even via USB cable. This will give you easy access to Internet directly on your device anytime and anywhere. There’s no need to pay an extra fee when you already have a data service plan***.

[J Arcane]

The impression I get from Archos is that their products are basically disposable. They burn through new revisions so fast it's hard to even keep up with the specs. They even seem to be confused about their products, the last time I checked their site, they had 3 different versions of the same Archos 9 or whatever, all cross linking to each other and completely scrambled up so it was totally unclear what the hell was even on them.

Also, they're completely un-Google-approved, so no Market, no GApps, nothing. Fuck that.

[Xerxes]

Apparently the market and apps thing was solved by one apk called market4archos. Gets you the market, youtube, and all the other goodies normally denied. I think one website said October 15th.

[Xerxes]

No google tablet that's not also acting as a phone will not have the market place from what I understand. Whispers make it sound like the apk for it should be easy enough for full access. Aside from Adlib aren't there a few other marketplaces?

I doubt any of these people will upgrade your current device to 3.0 when it's ready. That Archos video had me looking for more info cause I was interested. Turns out several tablets are out there being shown around at IFA 2010 in Berlin I think.

There is...
Toshiba Folio 100 Tegra 2, Android 10.1-inch tablet (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1rBMFSq96A)
Notion Ink Adam Pixel Tegra 2, Android 10.1-inch tablet (Pixel-Qi's 3qi display) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxgRBC47SAo)
E-Noa-Interpad Tegra 2, Android 10.1-inch tablet (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUcNFcqHOyI)
Hannspree Tegra 2, Android 10.1-inch tablet (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vTmB9KrIGho)
Archos 101 A8 ARM Cortex, 10” 10.1-inch tablet (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nZD4Mdkt40g&feature=player_embedded)


All with 1024×600 and capacitive touch. Most are still being worked on and are being shown with 2.1 but they look pretty responsive. 2.2 should only give a add boost before they are released.

It's not Android... But I found this video very funny.
j4LxC2S2tCw

[Xerxes]

I guess google settled that. 2.2 ain't for tablets, 3.0 is. Can't say this cools the fire in me interested in that Archos 101 any.

[Evil Avnovice]

Y'all don't mind if I share these, do you?

Samsungtweets tweet (http://twitter.com/Samsungtweets/status/24705469301):

#Samsung will be bringing the Galaxy Tab to all 4 major carriers in the United States! AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless!

SamsungMobileUS tweet (http://twitter.com/SamsungMobileUS/status/24705927029)

...showing full Adobe Flash video on the Galaxy Tab and Android 2.2 #samsung

[Xerxes]

http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/16/samsung-galaxy-tab-loses-voice-capabilities-in-the-us/

That's a bummer.

[jeffbax]

Could you elaborate?

Is it really that non-obvious? There is a massive difference in software design between a phone sized screen and an iPad sized screen.

http://christhis.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/09/iphone-cal.jpg

http://images.apple.com/ipad/features/images/ipad_zoomerlay_calendar_land_20100225.jpg

[Xerxes]

I get what you are trying to do but to be far those should be on the same views. One is looking at the day while the other is on the month.

[Xerxes]

Google Marketplace now works on Archos 28/32/43/70/101 Gen8 Internet Tablets (http://archosfans.com/2010/10/08/google-marketplace-works-on-archos-28324370101-internet-tablets/)


Score! If only there was a netflix app to really drive this home.

[boratika]

So, it seems Samsung thinks that $999AUD (no contract) is a good price for the Tab. For reference, the iPad 16GB 3G is $799 (no contract.) I guess they really don't want anyone buying one of these.

[Xerxes]

FK3ovYyh-34

To read comics on a 7 or 10 is probably m biggest question.

[muddi900]

600 bucks unsubsidized. Not bad.

[Xerxes]

600 bucks unsubsidized. Not bad.

What's that?

[muddi900]

The GalaxyTab. Its cheaper than the 32GB ipad in the states.

[Xerxes]

The GalaxyTab. Its cheaper than the 32GB ipad in the states.

Interesting. I understand why Archos couldn't do it, but Samsung should try to make sure they can upgrade it to 3.0. Make that promise if possible. Cause 2.2 is really DOA when google says 3.0 is for tablets.

[Xerxes]

pRD05TMr2r8

Currently doesn't have 2.2, but update is to come in November. I wish one of these guys would promise this 2.3 update.

[Jason]

Walgreens is now selling a $100 tablet. (http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/27/walgreens-now-selling-100-maylong-m-150-android-tablet/)

[Xerxes]

Walgreens is now selling a $100 tablet. (http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/27/walgreens-now-selling-100-maylong-m-150-android-tablet/)

Fuck that noise. Resistive touch I bet.

[destoo]

Fuck that noise. Resistive touch I bet.


As for specs, it looks like you'll get a 7-inch resistive touchscreen with an 800 x 480 resolution, a 400MHz VIA VM8505+ processor, built-in WiFi, an unspecified amount of built-in flash memory, and a microSD card slot or expansion.

Yup. That's single touch, right? Still has its uses, no?

[J Arcane]

Not single touch, press to touch.

No finger swipes here, you'll be needing a stylus for that bad boy.

Like an old school PDA. It'll be great for running the new Graffiti app for Android though.

[Voodoo]

Anyone picking up a Galaxy Tab today? They're supposed to have them in Daytona Beach today and I may pick up one, if just to try out for a month. ;)

[johnperkins21]

Anyone picking up a Galaxy Tab today? They're supposed to have them in Daytona Beach today and I may pick up one, if just to try out for a month. ;)
I'm waiting for Android 3 and the dual core processors before picking one up. I figure around my birthday in May of next year will be a good time. I can get by with the combination of my phone, Nook and PC until then.

[Voodoo]

I'm waiting for Android 3 and the dual core processors before picking one up. I figure around my birthday in May of next year will be a good time. I can get by with the combination of my phone, Nook and PC until then.
Yeah, good point. T2 is right around the corner.

[Xerxes]

So did you get it Voodoo? And whats t2?

[Voodoo]

So did you get it Voodoo? And whats t2?

Nope I passed because of the coming T2 devices. T2 = Tegra 2 (http://www.nvidia.com/object/tegra-2.html). The phase 3 phones are going to be dual core or more with the T2 being the standard bearer. One of the games being developed for these phase 3 devices is...

Dungeon Defenders (http://dungeondefenders.com/)

[Xerxes]

Nope I passed because of the coming T2 devices. T2 = Tegra 2 (http://www.nvidia.com/object/tegra-2.html). The phase 3 phones are going to be dual core or more with the T2 being the standard bearer. One of the games being developed for these phase 3 devices is...

Dungeon Defenders (http://dungeondefenders.com/)

That looks awesome. As much as it's eating me up, I think waiting might be the right thing.

[Voodoo]

That looks awesome. As much as it's eating me up, I think waiting might be the right thing.

X, I was standing IN LINE with a Tab in hand to buy it out-side of contract when suddenly there was a tap on my shoulder. I was totally surprised to find Voodoo from the future standing behind me at which point he told me to put the Tab back. Dude, Dungeon Defenders is fun! He let me check it out on his T2 tablet.

[Spectre-7]

I'm really considering grabbing an Archos 28 when I have the funds available. I've needed an MP3 player for a while, and it'd also make a handy replacement for my aging Palm Tungsten E2 (which produces this wonderful brain-melting noise whenever it's on).

[roboninja]

Nope I passed because of the coming T2 devices. T2 = Tegra 2 (http://www.nvidia.com/object/tegra-2.html). The phase 3 phones are going to be dual core or more with the T2 being the standard bearer. One of the games being developed for these phase 3 devices is...

Dungeon Defenders (http://dungeondefenders.com/)

That does indeed look pretty awesome.

[muddi900]

Yeah, good point. T2 is right around the corner.

Hasn't it been right around the corner since last year?

[J Arcane]

Tegra 2 IS in shipping hardware now though.

Unfortunately, it's terrible rubbish. (http://androidandme.com/2010/11/tablet/caution-toshiba-folio-100-android-tablet-is-now-shipping/)

[Xerxes]

Tegra 2 IS in shipping hardware now though.

Unfortunately, it's terrible rubbish. (http://androidandme.com/2010/11/tablet/caution-toshiba-folio-100-android-tablet-is-now-shipping/)

It was also terrible in that Viewsonic G Tablet as well. I think Nvidia doesn't give a shit as long as they sell chips. Google can't give a shit because they are standing behind the principle of being "open." Any body can come up with a shitty device and slap names on it in this regard.

Google should come up with some sort of Google Approved seal. Sure most folks no the difference but how long before your mom buys you a Android tablet from Kmart. :D

[Voodoo]

Tegra 2 IS in shipping hardware now though.

Unfortunately, it's terrible rubbish. (http://androidandme.com/2010/11/tablet/caution-toshiba-folio-100-android-tablet-is-now-shipping/)

Well that certainly sucks big balls. Still not reason enough for me to jump to a Galaxy Tab though. I'll continue to play this fun waiting game until Google & its partners throw in the towel all together on a viable Android tablet.

[biosc1]

Galaxy Tab is not being reviewed well either...which is unfortunate.

[Xerxes]

Galaxy Tab is not being reviewed well either...which is unfortunate.

I've only saw one "bad" review. :confused:

[J Arcane]

Yeah, I'm taken aback too. I've been hearing little feedback on Tab, but what I have has been glowing.

[Voodoo]

The WIFI only version of the Tab should be available about the same time that the other good Android tablets start to appear; Q1 2011.

[biosc1]

I've only saw one "bad" review. :confused:

Fiiiiine...I only read one poor review that popped up in my feeds ;)

[Xerxes]

Fiiiiine...I only read one poor review that popped up in my feeds ;)

Gizmodo review just wasn't good to me.

[zarathstra]

Fiiiiine...I only read one poor review that popped up in my feeds ;)

I had the opportunity to play with the Tab a couple weeks agho and I really liked it. Of course, since I only had a few minutes, and it was a demo model, I couldn't really dig into the apps.

[muddi900]

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2010/11/20101122-mdxx3tts9uf7myh5keisjywya8.medium.jpg

[J Arcane]

I poked a Tab recently for a few minutes. It's not bad, basically, it's the only Android competition to the iPad, and if you want an Android tablet you won't do any better. It's the only one that felt like it was performing on close to the same level.

The size I thought would be a liability also proves to be it's greatest advantage. It's so much easier to hold than the ginormity of the iPad. I think it might actually be better for gaming if they've got the touch screen accuracy down to 1:1.

[MagGnome]

If I was going to get a tablet I'd probably go with the iPad at this point. The Android tablets just aren't there from everything I've seen, although the Galaxy Tab is certainly promising. T-Mobile is advertising the device heavily on their site.

[J Arcane]

The Nook Color has been rooted, apparently, and according to XDA it's as quick as a Tab, though no proof on that yet.

Unfortunately the root process is pretty intense and requires a Linux machine to do it, but if they streamline it down to be as easy as other Androids, you could have a color tablet for only $250.

[LordDon]

So I finally decided to look hard at the Nook Color today, having recently purchased a normal Nook and being a little annoyed they'd already come out with the next big thing so fast. I was pleasantly surprised (http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/16/nook-color-review/).

An Android Tablet for half the price of an iPad. And from what I've found the rooting process has gotten easier (http://www.mobileread.com/forums/showthread.php?t=109344):

The XDA forum has pretty detailed instructions for doing this in linux, windows and mac.

I typed up a detailed list of instructions for rooting using a mac. I even went deeper and detailed installing adb to your computer, etc. It's not too difficult and I'm very much a novice at this and was able to do it.

Folks have gotten Angry Birds and Pocket Legends to run successfully on it. I think I'm sold.

FEw3bs5Xybw

[Xerxes]

Does it play videos? Which version of Android does it use?

[J Arcane]

2.1 I think, and yes, it has video playback even stock, though only .m4v I think, and Engadget had some less than stellar performance there.

I'm really tempted, that looks pretty great. Normally I avoid rooting/CFW/etc like the plague, but $249 makes it basically the best bang for the buck out there.

Has anyone got Market working on it?

[iHap]

I have a nook color and I rooted it the other day. I eventually switched it back to it's regular os for the time being. You have to manually install .apk's through a command prompt of your computers choice. Since market doesn't work it's hard to come by apps without an android phone. I have an iPhone 4 so other than crawling the web in search for apps there's no real way to get them.

The rooting process was simple enough. Just need a microsd card and about 20 minutes or so as long as you follow the instructions perfectly. Installing apps was simple as well, you write a simple command in cmd or through a program and you're good to go.

[Voodoo]

Here is some good news about the Nook Color...

http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/14/nook-color-getting-android-2-2-and-market-in-january-current-ha/

[iHap]

Looks like Android 2.2 and Market are coming to the NookC- in Jan.

And, thankfully, there is a much easier way coming, with Barnes & Noble confirming that Android 2.2 will be officially coming to the Nook Color in January. (http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/14/nook-color-getting-android-2-2-and-market-in-january-current-ha/)

[muddi900]

They abandoned the 'reading first' premise quickly. The real kicker would be loading the Kindle app on it.

[burger]

Anand reviewed the Viewsonic tablet which is using Tegra 2.

Some impressive numbers.

[LordDon]

Here is some good news about the Nook Color...

http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/14/nook-color-getting-android-2-2-and-market-in-january-current-ha/

So. Much. Win!

[Grifter]

I'll be grabbing an eReader for Christmas but I can't for the life of me decide which one want. I like the idea of having a tablet light (Nook Color) but at the same time I want it's primary use to be as a reader in which case an eInk screen (Kindle) may be better than the LCD.

I settled on the WiFi Kindle last night mainly because I don't what to have to root another device to get the functionality from it that I want but with the news that Froyo and Android market will be available next month I'm back to where I started. I'll just have to head to Best Buy and Barnes and Noble to see them in person.

[J Arcane]

Notion Inks hybrid e-ink/LCD tablet started taking preorders last week.

If you find it hard to decide on a display technology, wait. You may not have to.

[LordDon]

Notion Inks hybrid e-ink/LCD tablet started taking preorders last week.

If you find it hard to decide on a display technology, wait. You may not have to.

That $250 price point is what keeps me coming back to the Nook Color.

[Xerxes]

Notion Inks hybrid e-ink/LCD tablet started taking preorders last week.

If you find it hard to decide on a display technology, wait. You may not have to.

I'd almost forgo the eink display if I new more about the release window. I'm not a huge fan of putting money up for hopes and dreams. I'm a man of, "Your item has been shipped."

Looking around on there website, the look like they have something good on their hands, but shit could be Photoshopped.

It's not stock android, and for the first time in a long time I can say it doesn't bother me. Resolution could be better.

[J Arcane]

Nook Color to get Froyo, become "real tablet": http://arstechnica.com/gadgets/guides/2010/12/nook-color-will-get-froyo-update-become-a-real-tablet.ars

However, "Contrary to initial reports that stated the update would give users some kind of access to the Android Marketplace as well as a more typical homescreen, Barnes & Noble plans to keep the Android Marketplace off-limits to Nook owners."

Boo.

[iHap]

Boo.

If the Marketplace is there then give it a week and there'll be an easy guide to unlock it.

[Grifter]

I went to B&N this afternoon to check out the Nook Color and I think I like it more than the Kindle, the display isn't nearly as harsh as I though it would be and while it's not quite as nice as the Kindles eInk for text the other features more than make up for it.

If the Marketplace is there then give it a week and there'll be an easy guide to unlock it.

It's already do able it's just kind of a pain in the ass so once Froyo is released I'm sure it will be much easier. I'm hoping I can download the .APK files to my phone or PC and just side load them, if that is the case I'm not to worried about having access to Android marketplace.

[J Arcane]

If the Marketplace is there then give it a week and there'll be an easy guide to unlock it.
That's the thing. It won't be there. B&N is developing their own proprietary market.

If someone figures out how to sideload it as an app like on Archos devices, that'll get it though. But you may have to be root to do it. We'll see.

$250 is a good price, but I hate jumping through homebrew hoops to do basic shit.

[iHap]

If you unlock it you can already side load the .apk's just it's annoying to do if you don't have an Android phone to get them and back them up on your PC. There's only so many app sites that let you DL the .apk's.

[LordDon]

Hello from my new toy, gentlemen. Can't wait to root this bad boy.

[J Arcane]

Hello from my new toy, gentlemen. Can't wait to root this bad boy.
Let us know when someone gets Market and the Google Apps working.

If it's reasonably stable (unlikely for root/CFW, I know, but...) I might get one of those this coming term.

I'd really like a WiFi Tab, but damnit if Samsung isn't taking it's sweet bloody time getting it out there, probably because they're rolling in orders for the 3G version.

[LordDon]

I snagged Launcher Pro, Angry Birds, and Home Switcher off Market without issue.

[J Arcane]

I snagged Launcher Pro, Angry Birds, and Home Switcher off Market without issue.
How is the performance once you root it?

I played with one at B&N, and must confess an agreement with the reviewers that it is a tad sluggish.

[LordDon]

It's comparable, though I haven't put 2.2 on yet. Waiting for the official release for that. I did get Pocket Legends running on it and it's smooth as silk.

[Voodoo]

1fm9sSj4jKQ

[burger]

Awesome...mu buddy is going to CES starting tonight...I hope he suffers from Tablet overload by the time he gets back. This is the year of the tablet for me as a consumer. I can't wait to see what's shown at this year's show.

[Xerxes]

That looks awesome. Still very much a media tablet but I'm all game for it. Voodoo, you got me thinking about one device to rule them all and that video actually makes me think, well maybe I do need a tablet AND a phone.

Wonder how much carries over into phones.

[Voodoo]

TMobile is putting up videos still regarding Android v3...

http://www.youtube.com/user/TMobile

[Xerxes]

But my friend; Can it do Netflix?

[muddi900]

Tablets are the new 3D.

[J Arcane]

While I eagerly await the arrival of what appears to be the "Google Experience" of tablets with the G-Slate, I'm curious what it means for phones when they say 3.0 is designed for tablets.

Not that it matters too much for me personally, I'm getting increasingly suspicious about whether my N1 will really be getting even 2.3 now than the new Nexus is out, so for all I know it may never get 3.0.

[Xerxes]

Tablets are the new 3D.

But people actually want a tablet. :p

3 days and no wifi only tablet yet? Really CES? Fuck these phone companies for real.

Tell us how you really feel Xerxes's twitter. :D

[burger]

But people actually want a tablet. :p

Exactly...tablets are the future

[Xerxes]

Exactly...tablets are the future

Well.... Not these tablets. But they are a start. These are mostly media tablets. I think Asus though had a a tablet tablet. Pen to touch with no setting changes and fully functional. Biggest issue with that is the 3 hour life span. I can even make it to lunch without having to recharge. :(

[muddi900]

But people actually want a tablet. :p


And people also think Simon Cowell is an appropriate judge of music.

[Xerxes]

And people also think Simon Cowell is an appropriate judge of music.

No they don't. That's why they always go against his vote. :p

[burger]

And people also think Simon Cowell is an appropriate judge of music.

Music...no

singing ability....yes

I take it you've never actually watched the show? :p

[muddi900]

I take it you dont know shit abou Cowell's previous career. Pop Idol was created because Cowell and his ilk more or less destroyed British pop music. Not only should he not be judging music, he shouldn't be allowed to listen to it.

Also, Tablets are a fad. :p

[burger]

For those of you who recognize that tablets are here to stay Engadget (http://www.engadget.com/features/tablets-at-ces-2011/)has put together a nice list of the tablets featured at CES.

Lots of Android 3 options stand out. I have my eye on the Motorola Xoom.

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/01/tablets-1294522376.png (http://www.engadget.com/features/tablets-at-ces-2011/)

[MagGnome]

It will be interesting to see if tablets take off this time around. I remember the big push back in the early-mid 2000s, but obviously the tech at the time wasn't all that impressive. I think the iPad has been something of a game-changer in that regard.

[Xerxes]

These are media tablets, and I don't think they are a fad or going anywhere. Heck I remember thinking the Kindle was a fad, til having one and seeing it's legs.

I want to know more about this supposed Motorola Xoom Wifi only edition.

[johnperkins21]

It will be interesting to see if tablets take off this time around. I remember the big push back in the early-mid 2000s, but obviously the tech at the time wasn't all that impressive. I think the iPad has been something of a game-changer in that regard.
I think the iPad is an overpriced pile of shit. However, after playing with one for a few days, I'm very interested in the concept of a cheap, lightweight, well-powered device for doing simple media related activities, web surfing, and other convenience applications. I doubt that they will go away based on how well the iPad has sold, considering how much better it could easily be.

[Vandabo]

Looks like it's time to start saving for a Xoom. That thing looks shit hot to me.

[burger]

The Xoom definitely has piqued my interest. Hopefully Apple won't blow me away when they debut the iPad 2. I so want to ditch my iPhone and their products all together.

[MagGnome]

The Xoom definitely has piqued my interest. Hopefully Apple won't blow me away when they debut the iPad 2. I so want to ditch my iPhone and their products all together.

Now that they have real competition they will probably put forth more of an effort, although it won't take much of an upgrade to get their legions of hardcore fans to throw their old ones away once they have a new version out. I know a guy who upgrades all of his iDevices every single year. -_-

[Xerxes]

I was going to comment on him having money to blow, then I remembered my latest new phone each year trend. <shrug>

I'm still debating on whether to go tablet and phone, or just a big phone. Granted TMO announced jack shit this year. Probably will all come down to price. Not suffering from eye strain like some would, I could see a tablet being my new reader (Nook, Kindle, Aldiko 2, and ACV Comic Reader) as well as mobile video and internet surfing device.

Apparently the Xoom Wifi would be out in April. A month before the 4g version. Again, hopefully Latin America exec is in the know, and it's not just Latin America that gets it in April.

[boratika]

Tell us how you really feel Xerxes's twitter. :D

I totally agree, Xerxes's twitter.

[OldJadedGamer]

Now that they have real competition they will probably put forth more of an effort, although it won't take much of an upgrade to get their legions of hardcore fans to throw their old ones away once they have a new version out. I know a guy who upgrades all of his iDevices every single year. -_-

When the new iPad comes out, I'm debating on buying the new one or pick up a cheap first gen from some techy that is upgrading.

[burger]

I just read that Motorola ordered 800,000 Xooms to be manufactured for Q1.

CANNOT WAIT! ;)

[Xerxes]

I really hope a good deal of those are Wifi.

[burger]

I really hope a good deal of those are Wifi.

Agreed...I think for my first tablet I'm gonna skip 3G/4G support and just go with wifi since I envision 90% of my usage taking place in my bed or on the couch.

The other 10% will take place at Starbucks and they have wifi ;)

[Voodoo]

I really hope a good deal of those are Wifi.
By all accounts I've read, the Wifi version is coming out 1 to 2 months ahead of the 3G/4G versions. My guess is that they want to beat the iPad 2 announcement.

[J Arcane]

By all accounts I've read, the Wifi version is coming out 1 to 2 months ahead of the 3G/4G versions. My guess is that they want to beat the iPad 2 announcement.
Then they've already shot themselves in the foot anyway, if the UK is a good barometer of things. Apparently the UK version is £720. (http://www.financenews.co.uk/entertainment/motorola-xoom-tablet-to-take-uk-by-storm/)

UK iPads start at £439.

That is not a good sign. They look to be making the same mistake Samsung did all over again.

[Xerxes]

Then they've already shot themselves in the foot anyway, if the UK is a good barometer of things. Apparently the UK version is £720. (http://www.financenews.co.uk/entertainment/motorola-xoom-tablet-to-take-uk-by-storm/)

UK iPads start at £439.

That is not a good sign. They look to be making the same mistake Samsung did all over again.

The better be some retarded 128GB WIFI 4G model. O_o

[Voodoo]

The better be some retarded 128GB WIFI 4G model. O_o
... with Netflix

[J Arcane]

Doing some quick figures and comparing "Rip-Off Britain" markups for other similar products like iPad, that would seem to point to a US market price of around $750-770.

Which is insane, and pure suicide as a price point, but then again, the Tab launched at almost $700 as well, and though the price has steadily fallen since then, it's still $500 for the base model off-contract.

[burger]

What other choice is there though? I'd rather spend a premium on the Xoom then give apple more of my money. Plus some of that price will be subsidized through a carrier plan for people who want the 3G/4G version.

[Xerxes]

Why I hate carriers is up in there somewhere. Can't pinpoint it. Overcharging, subsidized, causing these devices to be priced more cause they are bigger than phones that are no being shown as way over priced... nope can't really hit the nail on the head. O_O

[burger]

Sprint is now offering (http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/12/sprint-drops-galaxy-tab-down-to-300-undercuts-everyone-but-us/)the Tab for under $300 with two year contract.

[biosc1]

I definitely feel like I maybe almost want an Android tablet...now seems to be the wrong time to buy one considering all the new tablets coming out.

[Xerxes]

I definitely feel like I maybe almost want an Android tablet...now seems to be the wrong time to buy one considering all the new tablets coming out.

You totally want to weight. The Honeycomb 3 for tablets versus devices running 2.2 looks so radical. I mean I thought Google would be fucking around when they were all 2.2 isn't for tablets.

The problem comes with price. I figured it would and apparently that might be the case. No one has gave a hard number but speculation as you can see is stupid.

I wonder if any of the PC manufactures will do a wifi version up nice.

[evilgoodwin]

I still want the Courier tablet that doesn't exist because Microsoft hates me. :P

But I'll keep my eye on these.

[Xerxes]

I still want the Courier tablet that doesn't exist because Microsoft hates me. :P

But I'll keep my eye on these.

Maybe that's what HP has been working on for the last 2 years.

[muddi900]

Well.... Not these tablets. But they are a start. These are mostly media tablets. I think Asus though had a a tablet tablet. Pen to touch with no setting changes and fully functional. Biggest issue with that is the 3 hour life span. I can even make it to lunch without having to recharge. :(

I was just thinking about this. I wouldn't mind a low battery life, as long as it works right. My sister has an old Tablet PC and while it is cool and saved my butt on the GRE(long story), is slow as hell. This is has caught my eye...

6_fXJob-mJE

only it is made by Acer. BOOO!

[burger]

Looks like the latest rumor is that the iPad 2 will feature the same screen as the first one...that pretty much seals the deal for me going the Android route.

I was going to wait and see if Apple debuted a 1080p or retina display for the iPad 2 because that one feature alone would probably have swayed me in their direction. Doesn't sound like that's gonna happen. Sorry Apple...the addition of a camera alone isn't going to make my put up with your vision of the internet, etc.

[biosc1]

So, the Motorola Xoom is looking to be released February 17th. I haven't done much research into it, but it looks pretty neat considering it will be the first to run Honeycomb.

Then again, first out of the gate isn't always the best.

[J Arcane]

For those interested in a cheap tablet, the Archos 5 500 GB tablet is $239 on Amazon today. That's cheaper than a NookColor.

[Vandabo]

I'm really interested in how the Xoom pans out. If it meets all the specs that they put out for it at CES that thing should rock.

[burger]

Google's Android Event Live (http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/02/live-from-googles-android-event/)

[biosc1]

Hmm..looks interesting. I'll definitely have to try some hands-on with the Xoom, but it looked to be a nice size

[Voodoo]

I'm holding at bay for the LG G-Slate. It doesn't appear that the Xoom may come out with a wifi-only model. :( Hopefully so but so far I haven't seen anymore supportive information that it will. Since there isn't a Xoom (it appears) on T-Mobile, the G-Slate with its 3D cameras and 8.9" size will do just fine. :)

[LordDon]

God bless the gents at XDA Developers.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v129/Lord_Don/Photoon2011-02-04at1731.jpg

[evilgoodwin]

So... can you still read with it? :P

[LordDon]

That's what books are for. ;)

[JayVe]

I hacked the Mrs' Nook Color into an Android tablet.

It is cool, but tablets still seem like a solution in search of a problem.

[burger]

It is cool, but tablets still seem like a solution in search of a problem.

Oh OK. :confused:

[Vandabo]

I hacked the Mrs' Nook Color into an Android tablet.

It is cool, but tablets still seem like a solution in search of a problem.

Send it over this way, I've got some problem's it'll solve.

[johnperkins21]

It is cool, but tablets still seem like a solution in search of a problem.
I think they're great if you have the application for them. There is no way that they could ever come close to replacing my computer, but I do think they can be a fantastic laptop substitute. They work well in the kitchen for looking recipes, and easily transition to the couch where you can look up information about a player you just saw score a touchdown. They're good for commuters who just want something to pass the time, and with their battery life and light weight, they easily trump a laptop for most people in that regard.

I do think they're a bit of a niche device, but as someone who has no interest in a laptop, after playing with an iPad for a while, I have a ton of interest in a good tablet.

[evilgoodwin]

Maybe that's why I don't feel the need to mess with my nook. I have a laptop that I love using :)

...Of course, I could always root it and get the nook application for it so it functions just like a nook should...

...Oh god... I think I just talked myself into something I didn't want to do...

[J Arcane]

I love the tablet, because I hate laptops. I hate the damn touch pads, I hate the size of the thing, I hate the inflexibility, I hate the fact that they really aren't that portable, I hate that most of them have useless battery life and weigh a ton, unless they're net books, in which case they're just piss weak and slow.

I can use my iPad a lot more comfortably in a lot more places, and the myriad keyboard options mean I can still do some serious writing on it if I need to.

[evilgoodwin]

I love the tablet, because I hate laptops. I hate the damn touch pads, I hate the size of the thing, I hate the inflexibility, I hate the fact that they really aren't that portable, I hate that most of them have useless battery life and weigh a ton, unless they're net books, in which case they're just piss weak and slow.

I can use my iPad a lot more comfortably in a lot more places, and the myriad keyboard options mean I can still do some serious writing on it if I need to.

I feel odd using a non-physical keyboard. I don't know what it is. Maybe it's the muscle memory of a normal keyboard so I can type without looking at the keys. I just feel... off.

[J Arcane]

I feel odd using a non-physical keyboard. I don't know what it is. Maybe it's the muscle memory of a normal keyboard so I can type without looking at the keys. I just feel... off.

On a full size tablet like iPad the form factor is not far off from a real keyboard in landscape mode, and the sound effects offer a nice click that gives some feedback. What I think is funny is the iPad virtual keyboard has those little nubbins on the f and j keys for finding home row, even though there's n way to feel them ...

Also, the Bluetooth keyboard support is nice, and there's cases out there with built-in ones. I've got a leather Kensington that folds up real nice with a Bluetooth keyboard, but the cheap leather is already starting to stretch which means the iPad doesn't quite fit right in it already.

[JayVe]

I find it really funny when people strap their ipad into a case with a keyboard. It is just a laptop at that point.

[JayVe]

Send it over this way, I've got some problem's it'll solve.

It isn't mine. It is the Mrs'. She uses it mostly for reading but checks her gmail every now and then on the hacked Nook. Active wallpapers are nice, but not necessary.

My ereader is the original Nook WiFi... which there isn't much of a reason to hack. I love the eInk screen for reading, but for anything other than reading it is downright painful.

[J Arcane]

I find it really funny when people strap their ipad into a case with a keyboard. It is just a laptop at that point.

My laptop doesn't fold backward on itself so I can just use the touch screen. Because it hasn't got either the hinge for that, or the touch screen. That would've cost me twice as much and run half as well, because it would've been an Atom running Windows 7 (for a netbook option, a higher end one would've run me 8 times that price, and still sucked because Windows blows with a touchscreen and most high-end "tablet PCs" aren't capacitive).

My laptop also weighs half again as much. And has a third the battery life. And doesn't run as quickly, because it's running embedded-class hardware with a desktop-class OS.

[Aggort]

I just got an Android tablet about a week ago. Absolutely loving it, got it for damn cheap and if anyone would like input, shoot.

We've been using it for comic book reading and books a good bit. I love it for weather and news as well as some other media we have enjoyed. Mine has built in HDMI out and puts out a beautiful 1080p display!

[Voodoo]

I just got an Android tablet about a week ago. Absolutely loving it, got it for damn cheap and if anyone would like input, shoot.

We've been using it for comic book reading and books a good bit. I love it for weather and news as well as some other media we have enjoyed. Mine has built in HDMI out and puts out a beautiful 1080p display!
Which one did you get?

[benson]

I am torn. I was waiting to see what Apple did to the iPad 2, but the Xoom looks spectacular. The only bad thing about it is the price on Verizon - $800 and to unlock wifi you have to buy a months data service. Hopefully they release the wifi only model soon and at a reasonable price point.

[burger]

I find it really funny when people strap their ipad into a case with a keyboard. It is just a laptop at that point.

And those people find it funny when you try and fail at detaching your laptop screen from the keyboard so you have something incredibly light and power efficient when surfing from the comfort of your couch or bed.

[Voodoo]

Well at least this coming weekend or thereabouts everyone that has a mobile device coming out soon is expected to show it off. I'd really like a convertible netbook/tablet that has capacitive touch with AMD Fusion and Win7.

[JayVe]

And those people find it funny when you try and fail at detaching your laptop screen from the keyboard so you have something incredibly light and power efficient when surfing from the comfort of your couch or bed.

In both bed, and on the sofa, I am not far from a wall outlet... so being power efficient isn't a big concern. Also, on the sofa and in bed, I have a lap readily available. In fact, in both of those places I prefer to put my computing device in my lap. I find it more difficult to juggle a 2-handed iPad-sized device and try and peck out things on a virtual keyboard than I do to simply place my laptop in my lap and efficiently type. An iPad in the lap isn't nearly as nice as a laptop. With the laptop, the monitor is held at an adjustable angle, hands free.

We use the tablet for looking up someone on IMDB while watching a movie... but just as frequently reach for the lappy as we do the tablet.

I'm happy people are finding uses for their tablets. I still think they are a solution in search of a problem. Reading email is just as good on my phone as it is on my tablet. Writing email is better on my PC and phone (with a real keyboard) than it is on a tablet. Surfing is better on my PC than any tablet.

For reading books, tablets win out over my lappy, but tablets don't win out over eInk.

Tablets are cool, but I'm finding less and less of a real need to have them. The more of them I use, the less I see a need for one.

[Vandabo]

When I'm either on my couch or bed I am almost always on my side, and for big guys like me the lap isn't the most comfotable place to put things (that's where I keep my gut). Hence having something with a good sized screen that I can hold while I use is very nice. For example, I love my Kindle, and would love something of a similar shape (but a little bigger) that does everything a netbook can.

[Suave Peanut]

I'm keeping a close eye on these. It seems like something I'd like but prices have got to come down a bit.