Small and mighty
Boasting it as the first Android 3.2 device, Huawei has revealed its 7in MediaPad tablet. Powered by a dual-core, 1.2GHz Qualcomm processor, and offering features such as 1080p video playback via an HDMI port, the MediaPad could find itself a niche in the market under the current wave of nigh-indistinguishable 10in tablets that have flooded market recently, offering similar performance in a more compact frame.
As much as it is pleased to be first to use it, Huawei says that Android 3.2 isn't a major change from 3.1, but is better optimised for 7in devices. There won't be any fundamental differences between the 7in MediaPad and the 10in tablets that have so far debuted with the previous version of the OS, at least in terms of their software.
At 10.5mm thick, and weighing 390g the MediaPad certainly isn't a bulky device, putting it in good stead against its design-focussed competition. The aesthetics are fairly reminiscent of the iPad, although its smaller size will probably keep the MediaPad out of too heavy competition with Apple's tablets. The MediaPad will also offer HSDP+ connectivity, and support Flash 10.3, which should make it a decent web-browsing platform.
The MediaPad will come pre-installed with apps including Facebook, Twitter, and Documents to Go, and is apparently "supported by Huawei's Device's Hi-Space cloud solution and the Google Android Market." The latter is an obvious addition, but a 'cloud solution' from Huawei could prove an interesting differentiator versus its competition, depending on how comprehensive an offering Huawei delivers to its users.
No pricing or release date has been detailed by Huawei yet, but we'll be keeping our eyes peeled.
