Nokia just revealed its very first tablet, the 10-inch, Windows RT 8.1-running Lumia 2520. As far as tablets go, it’s pretty standard fare.
Here’s what we’re working with: 1080p video, a 6.7-megapixel Zeiss lens on the back and a 2-megapixel shooter on the front. It supports 4G LTE and has Microsoft Office built-in. The 2520 runs on a 2.2GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 chip, and has an 8,000 mAh battery. Available in red, white, cyan, and black for $US500, this baby goes on sale by the end of the year. Although we just can’t see many people lining up for what’s basically a run-of-the-mill 10-inch tablet.
However, it’s nice to have another option when it comes to Windows tablets. Your other choice would be Microsoft’s Surface 2, its second-gen tablet which we reviewed earlier this week.
The Surface straddles the line between laptop and tablet, and it’s sort of a weird product. And the update didn’t necessarily make Surface any less strange. It’s also expensive, starting at $US900. The Lumia 2520, on the other hand, has better cameras and will cost you nearly half the price. And you still get all the almost-laptop functionality you get from Windows RT. Neither product might be perfect, but there’s nothing wrong with a little variety.
Nokia Lumia 2520:
· 10.1-inch HD display, both 4G LTE and Wi-Fi connectivity, 6.7MP camera with ZEISS optics
· Windows RT 8.1
· Fast-charging capability – providing up to 80% charge in one hour
· Nokia Storyteller software: A new way to curate and relive images and videos as a story on a map is also included, plus Nokia Video Director, providing the ability to edit and get even more creative with videos shot on the Lumia 2520 – as well as content from Lumia smartphones
· Integrated HERE Maps, the Nokia Lumia 2520 is the only tablet with true offline maps for a fast and reliable navigation experience. An exclusive version of Nokia Music with Mix Radio is also pre-installed
· Pairs with the Nokia Power Keyboard. Offering up to five extra hours of battery life, two built-in USB ports, a protective and wraparound cover and a fully functional keypad with gesture trackpad, typing feels as natural as on a laptop. Microsoft Office and Outlook is also pre-installed
· Available in red and white in a glossy finish as well as cyan and black in a matte finish, and is expect to start shipping in Q4 2013 with an estimated price of USD499 before taxes or subsidies. Initial roll out is to begin broadly in the U.S., U.K and Finland, with additional countries to follow shortly.
· Australia: It’s too early to share details on availability and pricing for Australia but as soon as we have an update, we’ll let you know.