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Sony has today announced the launch of the Xperia Tablet S. It is the next generation Tablet S and as previously leaked features a much thinner aluminium-constructed shell.
Building upon the original Tablet S of which we reviewed here, the Xperia S features an IR remote of which now has “macro functionality” allowing the ability to turn on multiple devices of varying brans including TV’s, Blu-ray players with a simple touch of a button. Sony has also introduced a new application called “Watch Now” which is said to enrich the TV watching experience. The app will allow users to discover new shows they may be interested in, and share what they are watching via Twitter, Facebook and Get Glue. This Sony exclusive application will be in the Google Play store and available for Xperia Tablet S users in the US at launch. There is no word at this stage if, or when UK users can expect to see the Watch Now app.
We were impressed with Sony’s application offerings on the Tablet S which included access to their Video and Music streaming services, as well as a custom email application and of course the IR remote app. Building upon these, this time Sony has also introduced “Guest Mode”. Families that have a tablet may have found that sharing one device between many causes confusion and difficulties with apps, email accounts and more. Sony is hoping Guest Mode will solve this by allowing the tablet owner to control a guest account and limiting which apps and widgets are accessible by which user. – Parents! This sounds like one for you.
Read on for specs, and video!
The Xperia Tablet S has a new splash proof design, and interestingly even with wet hands users are said to still be able to control the screen – something many touchscreens take issue with. The screen itself features a 1280 x 800 resolution and has finger print and glare reducing coatings. It is running Android 4.0 with an update to Jelly Bean expected in the near future, as well as having a NVIDIA Tegra 3 processor, Wi-Fi and a full size SD card slot.
Finally, Sony will be releasing a variety of Xperia Tablet S accessories including a cover with keyboard, a docking stand, simple stand, carrying cover, charging cradle and a dock speaker.
The Sony Xperia Tablet S will be available in the UK starting September 7th for £329/£379 (16GB/32GB). Pre-orders are up on www.sony.co.uk for the 16 and 32GB models.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fI2azyXeync&w=640&h=360]
Can you wait to get your hands on the Sony Xperia Tablet S? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
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