Google's Tablet Debut Pushed Backed To July

Efforts to reduce production costs touted as the main reason for the delay.

Google's much-anticipated debut tablet may be delayed till July, according to reports. The launch date of its first co-branded Android device has been pushed further from its original May deadline, because the company is trying to tweak the device. Apparently, it is trying to change the design to lower the cost from the current $250 (Rs 12,800). Built in association with Asustek Computer, this tablet will sport a 7" screen and will be powered by anNVIDIA Tegra 3 quad-core CPU. With only Wi-Fi connectivity, the tab will run Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich).

The company is reportedly targeting a price tag between $150 (Rs 7700) and $200 (Rs 10,200) to compete against Amazon's similarly priced Kindle Fire. Apple is also planning to launch a smaller version of the iPad, sporting a 7.85" screen for a lower price, hence that is surely being taken into consideration by Google. The partnership with Asustek will be on similar lines, like that with HTC for the Nexus One smartphone. Co-branding with Google will definitely open new avenues and opportunities for companies, since it is a popular brand. We will have to wait and see what kind of reception the new tablet will receive once it is out, though we will have to wait for that till July.