Toshiba's first Android tablet, the Folio 100, won't be upgradeable to the tablet-optimised version of Android, 3.0 Honeycomb, ITPRO has learned.
According to Graeme Simons, Toshiba's business manager for digital products and services, the Folio 100 can't be upgraded to Android 3.0 Honeycomb since it doesn't meet Google's hardware requirements for 3.0 certification. Specifically, it lacks both GPS and cameras that face both backwards and forwards.
Purchasers of the Folio 100 will therefore have to be content with the Android 2.2 Froyo operating system preinstalled on the tablet. The Folio 100 will also lack access to the official Android Market, although Toshiba will be preinstalling an app store of its own.
Toshiba is positioning the Folio 100 as a cheaper alternative to its upcoming Android 3.0 Tablet. The Folio 100 originally debuted just in time for Christmas before being mysteriously recalled. The Folio 100 should be available in March and is currently available for pre-order for around 370 online, but this price could be subject to change.
Given that the cheapest WiFi-only 16GB iPad costs just 60 more and Android 3.0 tablets, including the Toshiba Tablet will be available only a month or two after the Folio's March debut, we doubt many buyers will be tempted by the Folio 100.
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