ViewSonic's ViewPad 7 Is An Android 2.2 Tablet And Phone

Another tablet? Of course! As the entire PC-based universe gears up to take on the iPad, ViewSonic is even getting in on the action. But there's a difference between this tablet and some of the other Microsoft-blessed tablets coming soon. The ViewPad 7 is Android-based, and in fact, it's the world's first 7" Android 2.2 (Froyo) tablet with phone functionality. That's right: a 7" tablet that can double as a phone!


Dell's Streak is a 5" slate with phone support, but this is even larger. It's designed to be used with a Bluetooth headset when using phone functionality, but we suppose you could actually place the monstrous device beside your head if you really wanted to. We wouldn't recommend it, of course. Other specifications include front-and-back facing cameras (video calling, anyone?), full 3G support, a SIM card slot, Bluetooth, VoIP support, a G-sensor, USB connectivity, Assisted GPS, a capacitive multi-touch display and an ultra-slim form factor.


Unfortunately, ViewSonic isn't talking about price just yet (aside from saying it will be no more than £350), but we certainly are intrigued. A 7" tablet with Android 2.2 that can double as a phone? Definitely hot.

31st August 2010 – ViewSonic Europe ushers in a new product category to its portfolio with the introduction of a premium capacitive multi-touch screen 7" tablet.

Viewpad 7

The ViewPad 7 is a world's first 7" Android 2.2 (Froyo) tablet with phone functionality, multi-tasking capabilities and front and back-facing cameras, VGA and 3MP, resolutions respectively.

Within a lightweight, pocket-sized design, this device is ideal for anyone who needs a mobile connection to the world via email and video and wants to enjoy a wide-range of applications.

With full 3G and phone functionality, a full size SIM card slot and integrated Bluetooth connectivity the ViewPad 7 will support instant messaging, text/mms messaging, VOIP and standard voice calls all in a single device.

It features an easy to use familiar interface with a G-sensor that reorients the screen depending on how the device is held and access to the Google Android app store featuring over 100,000 applications.

Additional features includes a Micro SD slot for up to 32GB of storage; Wi-Fi and 3G functionality for web browsing and USB connectivity. It also boasts advanced features including Assisted GPS and an office document reader, along with the capability for hand-written note taking. There is also an e-book reader, when combined with the crystal clear LED screen, makes the ViewPad 7 an invaluable travelling companion.

Superior to other tablet offerings with resistive touch technology the ViewPad 7 incorporates a capacitive multi-touch screen and is a portable, easy-to-use and competitively priced device that will transform the way that consumers read, watch, listen to and interact with media in a mobile environment.

"We are proud to announce another world first at Viewsonic. 3G phone functionality combined with dual cameras gives the ability for use of Android apps to use augmented reality or video calling on the move with the benefit of an excellent 7" screen" says Derek Wright, European Product Marketing Manager. "The ViewPad 7 is aimed at users who require the 'always on' connectivity they are used to from a mobile phone with a more agreeable screen size for longer term use."

ViewSonic will be showing the ViewPad 7 at its stand at IFA 2010, in Berlin, Hall 14.1 stand 107.

-ENDS-

For further information and review samples -available early October, please contact: -

Paul Kinsler
PK Media Solutions
paul@pkmedia.co.uk
Tel: +44 20 8449 1636

For details on the Viewpad 7 please visit http://www.viewsoniceurope.com/uk/.

Pricing and availability

The Viewpad 7 will be available from approved resellers. Pricing will be subject to the supplier's method of sale, but is anticipated that the estimated SRP will be no more than £350 Inc Vat