Google has released a load of information about their tablet-centric Android OS they've dubbed Honeycomb. Geared towards tablet users and refined for the purpose of multitasking, it looks like it could make Google something of a contender in the tablet wars. But does it have what it takes? When paired with the right hardware, maybe.
This week at CES, Motorola revealed their new tablet--the Xoom--to the world. With a dual-core processor, a long-lasting battery, 5.0 megapixel camera, and 1080p video playback, it seems like it would have all the bells and whistles a tablet user could ever want. However, specs do not a decent tablet make. As most geeks will agree, hardware is nothing without decent software to back it up. Where the pairing of Xoom and Honeycomb are concerned, those who prefer their mobile computing with a touch of Android just might have something to get excited over.
On the Xoom, Honeycomb relies entirely on virtual buttons, making it possible to easily interact with the mobile OS no matter what your screen orientation might be. There's also a strong focus on widgets, which can be placed anywhere on screen and come standard with most app downloads from the Android Marketplace.
Honeycomb's tablet users can also look forward to watching high definition video on the go and engaging in video chat using the Xoom's built-in camera and Google Talk. There's also the inclusion of Google Books, which comes standard with the mobile OS, and allow tablet users to interact with a virtual 3D interface before sitting down and reading their traditional 2D fare.
Without any real hands on time, it's hard to say whether or not the debut of Honeycomb will make any upcoming Android tablet the "iPad killer." But one thing's for sure: we're glad to welcome Android to the tablet game.
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