Android
Community reports that HTC has
officially announced its Flyer tablet at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona,
and its specs are quite impressive.
The
Android 2.4 Gingerbread-based device runs a modified version of the Sense UI,
which pairs nicely with the 7-inch, 1024 x 600 capacitive
touchscreen. It's all powered by a 1.45 GHz single-core Qualcomm CPU with
data-only HSPA+ (a Wi-Fi-only version is in the works). The Flyer also
boasts a 4,000 mAh battery, dual cameras, and a custom microUSB port that
supports HTC's new rapid charger (as well as standard microUSB
chargers). The hardware is wrapped up nicely in a sleek white plastic and
brushed aluminum chassis.
Despite sporting a single-core processor, HTC
says the Flyer will be receiving a
Honeycomb OTA update after it launches. In the meantime, HTC promised
split-screen apps; a multi-pane browser, calendar, e-mail, and address book;
and other software that takes advantage of the Flyer's resolution even before
then.
What
might be most interesting, though, is HTC's inclusion of a stylus with the
Flyer. The stylus is paired with a battery-powered pen (with erase and
text-select buttons) and supports an app called Notes, which allows users to
sketch, handwrite text, and notate imported photos. The app also can record
audio and allow you to take notes throughout, all the while indexing your notes
alongside the audio. This functionality is sure to help college students take
better notes during lectures. Notes can then wirelessly sync with the Evernote
app, and HTC is planning on allowing third-party developers to create
additional apps with the stylus functionality.
The Flyer
will also come pre-loaded with HTC's new Watch app that offers streaming movies
and TV shows. Meanwhile, an OnLive app streams 3D gameplay and, using DLNA over
WiFi, puts OnLive gaming on a nearby TV. Both the Watch and OnLive app will
offer pay-per-use and subscription options.
“We’ve
pretty serious about this category,” HTC told Android Community. “We’re
not just dipping our toe into the water.”
The Flyer
is set to launch in early Q2 of this year. Pricing has not been announced, but
it should be expected to be at the high end for tablets (to rival the iPad and Motorola
Xoom).
