Computer and chip makers showcased the next generation of Internet-centric tablet devices on the CES 2010 Show.
The mobile devices, also known as “slates” and “tablets 2.0″, include 5- to 12-inch touch and multi-touch displays, smartphone- and netbook-class processors, mobile broadband connectivity and HD video support in some models, and various operating systems, such as Microsoft Windows 7, Google Android, and customized web-based versions of Linux.
There are also some innovative designs, such as the Lenovo’s IdeaPad U1 laptop/tablet hybrid and the enTourage eDGe dual-screen device.
Dell has debuted a tablet concept with a 5″ display, while Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer showcased the HP Slate, which resembles Amazon Kindle DX in size.
Chip makers NVIDIA and Freescale presented their concepts. NVIDIA’s Ultra Tablet is based on the Tegra platform and provides 4G LTE broadband connectivity and full HD 1080p support, while Freescale’s ARM Cortex A8-powered reference design is intended to make the tablet devices to cost less than $200.
The most of new tablets, as well as the rumored Apple’s “iSlate”, are expected to hit the market this year with an estimated price range from around $200 to 1,000. The enTourage eDGe and Joojoo are already available for pre-order.
