Some early models of the smaller form-factor tablet, such as the Blackberry Playbook, were failures while others such as the Kindle Fire and B&N Nook have been successes. The rumors are now heating up about a next generation of 7" Amazon tablets to compete with the new Nexus 7. Most rumors suggest an updated low-end model without a camera, and a higher-end model with a camera and higher resolution display. One or both models are rumored to have 4G carrier network capabilities. What else might we see? Will any of these new tablets have NFC (Near Field Communications) hardware for payment or access functions?
One possible addition to this product space is an Apple iPad Mini. There has been lots of speculation. On the one hand, Apple doesn't need to dilute their product line as long as their iPad continues to sell so well. But on the other hand, releasing an Apple branded 7" tablet right now could take all the attention (and most of the sales) away from Google and Amazon.
I think it's likely we'll see a crowded 7" tablet market in the second half of 2012, with most or all models in the $200-$250 US price range, and that they'll be very big sellers through the holiday season.
Are you looking for a 7" tablet? Does it need to have a "retina" display? Does it need NFC? What features are "must haves?"
Leave a comment and let us know!
Links:
- http://rapidgroove.blogspot.com/2012/06/google-nexus-7-tablet-announced.html
- http://rapidgroove.blogspot.com/2011/05/kindle-and-nook-occupy-one-branch-of.html
- http://www.pcworld.com/article/258951/next_kindle_fire_will_be_thinner_with_better_display_report_says.html
- http://www.zdnet.com/kindle-fire-2-rumored-for-august-launch-7000000491/
- http://www.pcworld.com/article/258861/does_apple_really_need_a_7inch_ipad.html
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