Sony has unveiled the 10.1 inch Android Xperia Tablet Z at MWC 2013, which is aimed at the premium market and is an exquisite-looking device that also uses the company’s unique “OmniBalance” design. The Xperia Z will run Android 4.1 Jelly Bean and will be upgradable to Android 4.2 when it hits the market.
Billed as the world’s thinnest tablet at just 6.9 mm and lightweight at 495g, the Tablet Z sports a 10.1in HD screen and is dust and water resistant. It will appear only as a 16GB device with the ability to add further memory up to 64GB through micro SD. The device will come in black-and-white, and LTE and Wi-Fi-only versions. The device is packed with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon S4 Pro processor and S-Force Front Surround 3D. It features an 8MP rear camera and 2MP HD front camera plus, as with most Sony products, it also comes with Near Field Communication (NFC).
The Xperia Tablet Z is powered by Mobile BRAVIA Engine 2, which the company claims delivers enhanced colour reproduction for a brilliant TV-like viewing experience. The tablet’s Universal IR Remote allows users to control their TVs and other Sony devices as well as products from other manufacturers directly with the tablet.
“The living room continues to be the number one location for tablet usage in the US. Consumers are using their tablet as a second-screen companion while watching TV, which is why we packed the Xperia Tablet Z with more connectivity options than any other tablet on the market,” said Phil Lubell, vice president of networked technologies and services at Sony Electronics. “The Xperia Tablet Z makes it easier than ever to connect, share and discover content across all your devices in the home.”
The Xperia Tablet Z is available in black in 16GB and 32GB versions, and will be sold at Sony Stores, including online, and other authorised dealers for about $499 and $599 , respectively. A white 32GB version will be available exclusively at Sony Stores, including online.
Although intended as additional proof of the company’s desire to be as a lead player in the premium Android device market, the new Tablet Z will undoubtedly go head-to-head with Apple’s iPad. Many have tried and failed to compete with the iPad in the premium 10in tablet space and, at first glance, it is difficult to see how Sony expects to achieve this. However, once consumers get to touch and feel the device, notably for its incredible thinness, light weight and gorgeous styling, it should stand out as a serious competitor with tangible points of differentiation.
