Since Apple recently announced that the latest iPad will soon be hitting the shelves, it's worth taking a moment to look at the competing tablets currently available. The Android tablet universe is thriving, and offers a thousand and one alternatives to the iPad that are in many cases just as good if not better. Consumers are starting to slowly realize this, although getting a handle on what Android has to offer can be confusing. Here's a quick synopsis of the state of the Android tablet at present.
Overview of the Ecosystem
Like Apple's iOS, Android is merely an operating system that's installed on a variety of devices. Unlike iOS, Android is more open due to the fact that it's based on the Linux kernel. Since its entrance into the tablet marketplace, Android has exploded and can now be found on many different kinds of tablet PCs. At present, the most up to date version is Android 4.0, aka "Ice Cream Sandwich". Most tablets nowadays run Android 3.0 "Gingerbread", which is the tablet-optimized version of the operating system.
Benefits and Advantages
The main advantage of an Android tablet is the same one shared by smart phones using the OS, which is to say that Google's mobile operating system offers choice in large amounts. Android can be installed on a number of different form factors, whereas a tablet version of iOS can be found only on an iPad. While the iPad is a fine device, it offers only one strict set of specifications and features. Android tablets come in all shapes and sizes, including folding models and hybrid tablet-notebook versions.
Some Choice Models
Let's get down to brass tacks and mention a few notable Android tablets that can and should give the iPad a run for its money. The Motorola Xoom is a 10.1-inch powerhouse that boasts up to 64 GB of storage space, a dual-core 1.0 GHz CPU and a 5 MP camera. The Samsung Galaxy Tab is another popular Android model that boasts a powerful Nvidia Tegra 2 processor, loads of storage space and plenty of innovative features. Android tablets also include smaller models like the Kindle Fire and the Asus Memo 370T that are more compact and convenient while offering the same performance as larger devices.
Final Word
Though the Apple PR machine has been doing its best to downplay Android tablets, the truth is that many models offer a user experience that's equal to the iPad at a lower price. In some cases, Android tablets actually surpass Apple's flagship tablet in terms of performance and versatility. Though they got off to a slow start and still trail the iPad when it comes to market share, tablets are poised to explode in the coming year. Regardless of what you're looking for in a tablet, chances are good that there's an Android tablet out there that suits your needs perfectly.
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