Sunday 27 February 2011

Tablet computing heats up

Without question, Apple's iPad is the best-known tablet computer on the market today. Others came before, but the iPad redefined the concept with its usual high-style design, touch-functionality and multiple features. Now HTC, the master of smartphones, is developing its own tablet computer to challenge Apple's dominance. "I think we are just at the beginning for innovation in the tablet market," HTC's John Wang told the Guardian. In fact, HTC revealed a prototype of its Flyer tablet (left) just two weeks ago.Reportedly, the Flyer will run on Google's Android system and will feature a stylus as the main input method. The projected price: 499 euros.

Since iPad prices vary around the world (see Economist table below), HTC may decide to vary its Flyer price, as well. In fact, a study out today says that tablet prices will have to drop before this becomes a mass-market product with significant sales volume. No matter what the price, HTC's new entry will give customers a new choice and put pressure on Apple and other rivals to continue innovating AND dropping prices.