Remember the days when a 3G enabled tablet computer would cost you $400 and more? What are we saying, they still do cost that much, especially if you buy one of the ‘big brand’ models, if you know what we mean?
Well out in the big wide world, things are changing, and included in that upheaval is the slump in prices of Internet connected tablets. This Ampe A78 tablet computer is a 7 inch, dual core 1.2GHz device, running Android 4.0.4, with a built in unlocked SIM card slot for your roaming WCDMA 3G Internet needs, and integrated GPS, WiFi, Bluetooth, a microSD slot supporting 32GB cards, 1080p video playback and twin cameras.
Now granted you only get 4GB of internal storage, and it’s only 512MB of RAM, but that is a 1024×600 capacitive touchscreen on there, plus Google Play, Skype and all the other goodies you’d expect to find on your tablet device. The 3200mAh battery is apparently rated for 5 hour run time, which is reasonable, and nowadays we’re more inclined to believe these figures because of the improved Android power management and standby shutdown modes.
But the kicker is the price. At just $99.99, it kind of suggests that the era of high priced branded tablet computers will soon be drawing to a close. You could buy five of these and still have cash left over from your ‘Retina Display’ obsession.
Well, on your head be it young ferret me’lad! I bought one.
Quick Google search gave me a coupon for another 8% off so for 59 quid or thereabouts and free world wide shipping it seemed like a good idea. I’ll let you know when it arrives.
Oh excellent. Give us a comment review when it arrives. :)
Best Regards,
Nigel P.
okay so here is a comment based on dictation via my new tablet. It isn’t the fastest tablet in the world I’m sure but never mind the quality feel the price! Typing now. It arrived in 9 days and the Customs Declaration helpfully said it was a ten dollar gift – so no VAT. I had trouble connecting the WiFi at work but it connected immediately at home. A few wrinkles to understand – never had a tablet or anything Android before, but so far… outstanding.
I’m going to put it up against an iPad mini on Sunday. My gut feel is that it will be slower and somehow less responsive but realistically… I’ve got £250 left in my bank. I can’t believe I have all this for £58.
The big thing Apple fans say is that you’ll keep your hardware longer because it is so good and well designed. To be honest I’ll probably want the next big thing in a year, so I’m wasting £58 instead of £300.
Most annoying thing? I keep catching my hand on he on/off button, and the volume control goes the “wrong way”. Really, that’s the most irritating thing I’ve got.
And the best thing? Instead of Google not paying tax – I didn’t pay tax
Oh excellent feedback Bob, thanks very much. :)
Let me know how that iPad vs CheapPad goes. Heh, I think it might feel quite nice (as long as the device holds up).