Acer to challenge the iPad by releasing Android, Windows tablets

By Aemon Malone November 24, 2010

The world’s second-largest computer maker, Acer, has announced its not-so-surprising plan to enter the burgeoning tablet computer market starting next year. Acer has unveiled initial details on three different models, two of which will run on the Android operating system and the other on Windows 7.

The difference among the Android-based options is primarily size: one will be a 7-inch version and the other 10.1-inches. The 7-inch model is geared towards mobility and offers a 1280-by-800 touch screen display with a 16-by-10 aspect ratio. The smaller Android tablet also features a front-facing HD camera, support for Adobe Flash Player 10.1, and “a truly amazing sound experience” through Dolby Mobile Technology.

The 10.1-inch tablet is a bit larger than the iPad’s 9.7-inch display and, at 13.3mm, is also slightly thicker as well. It also will feature 1080p display capabilities, aluminum casing, and a 10-point multi-touch and gyro meter control geared towards gaming.

Both of the Android models offer HDMI support and wireless connectivity through Wi-Fi and 3G. Expect them to be available in April of next year.

The Windows 7 version will be offered as a 10.1 model only. It features both front- and rear-facing 1.3MP cameras, and a docking station that includes a full-size physical keyboard. This model will be 15mm, slightly thicker than the 10.1-inch Android version. It will also have support for both Wi-Fi and 3G connections. It will be available in February of 2011, sooner than the Android models.

Obviously, there’s still a lot of details to be fleshed out on all three devices. For starters, we’re still waiting to hear what Acer will be calling these things as well as how much they’ll cost.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Mobile

I ditched my iPad Pro for an Android tablet — here’s why

Man holding green OnePlus Pad Android tablet over space gray 11-inch M1 iPad Pro 2021.

I work from home full time. That means distractions walk in freely, and keeping myself engaged is not always easy. In search of motivation, I lean toward change, novelty, and the urge to avoid being chained to my desk all day.

In this pursuit, the iPad Pro has proven to be a terrific gadget that allows me to get away from the clutter on my desk without giving up the capabilities of a computer. Being a Mac user, the iPad Pro easily fits into my workflow, primarily for seamless Continuity.

Mobile

How to download the iPadOS 17 beta on your iPad right now

iPad showing iPadOS 17 Developer Beta 1 update screen with MacBook in the background.

During its 2023 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) last month, Apple took the wraps off its entire lineup of 2023 operating system updates, including iPadOS 17. This year's major tablet software release promises to bring over many of the fun lock screen features from the iPhone to the larger canvas, plus a new Health app, a better way of working with PDFs and Notes, and some nice multitasking improvements.

The final release of iPadOS 17 won't show up until this fall, but Apple has just opened the doors on its public beta program for those who would like to take an early sneak peek.

Mobile

This $199 refurbished iPad deal is $120 cheaper than a new one

iPad 7th generation hands-on holding in horizontal mode

If you don't mind purchasing refurbished stock that looks like new, Walmart has one of the best iPad deals today. Right now, you can buy the Apple iPad 7th generation for only $200 saving you $49 off the usual price. Of course, it's a refurbished unit but Walmart promises that it works and looks like new so you're not missing out on anything other than spending more cash. It's an older model but thanks to Apple supporting iPads for a long time, you'll be fine. Here's a deeper look at what to expect from your new acquisition.

Why you should buy the Apple iPad
The Apple iPad 7th generation was launched back in 2019. Four years old, it's still reasonably powerful if you don't mind a few concessions in exchange for owning an iPadOS-based tablet. It's powered by the A10 Fusion processor that was seen in the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus. It can still handle plenty of multitasking so there are no concerns there, although we'd recommend this as a tablet for someone who doesn't mind being a few steps behind technologically. After all, this isn't one of the best tablets anymore, but it's ideal for entertainment purposes.