Sony showcase new S1 and S2 tablets to compete with iPad

Sony are the latest to want a slice of the iPad pie, they have just revealed new Google Android powered touchscreen tablets, which will be released later this year.

The tablets are called the S1 and S2 and have been highlighted at a media launch in Japan. Sony are hoping their experience and public acceptance in the gaming sector will help drive sales of the upcoming tablets. The S1 has a 9.4 inch screen and the S2 is a 5.5 inch model – both of which will be compatible with Playstation games.

Kunimasa Suzuki, deputy president of consumer products and services has indicated that both devices will run Google Android 3.0 Honeycomb. In an interesting approach to the design, they have opted for radical new chassis implementations. The S1 has an ‘off center of gravity form factor' and the S2 will feature a foldable dual screen setup, a little like the Nintendo portable devices.

Both of these will be marketed under the ‘Sony Tablet' brand. The S1 will feature a Tegra 2 processor, Wi-Fi and 3G/4G cellular data capability. There will also be an IR port for AV controls to work alongside Sony's Bravia televisions with support for Digital Living Network Alliance standards. Sony didn't release any other specifications but they did say that the design and specifications are subject to change without notice. So perhaps they plan on making further adjustments to the chassis before the winter release.

Sony are confident in their upcoming tablet range, saying at CES this year that they would take the No.2 spot in the tablet market within a year. Bold claims indeed, especially as they have yet to release a product to market !

KitGuru says: Are Sony the company to put a dent in Apple's sales? No one else has yet been that successful, but perhaps this will change by the end of the year.

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