A tablet version of the Google Chrome OS isn't just an idea anymore. On the contrary, it's currently in the works and taking steps towards becoming a reality.
Recent changes in Chrome and the Chrome OS source code indicate that a tablet version of the OS is in the works, and when contacted for comment by CNET, Google confirmed that this is in fact the case. Beyond confirmation, however, no new information could be gleaned, as the company maintained that they have "nothing new to announce at this time."
Some of these changes to the source code included virtual keyboard designs and more touch-friendly layouts like extra space around items and a revamped new-tab page. When users open a new, blank tab, they will now see multiple screens featuring an array of icons for their various apps (in the style of Android and iOS).
Also, the "user-agent string" text -- which browsers use to tell Web servers what version of a website to deliver -- has been updated for touch users interfaces. In other words, when a user attempts to access a website while using the Chrome OS for tablets, the version of the website to which they will be directed will be touch- and tablet-friendly.
Chrome OS was first introduced back in 2009, but has been evolving ever since; indeed, a tablet version comes as no surprise, especially considering Google even created mock-ups of a Chrome OS tablet (pictured here) over a year ago.
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Skipping right over the Next4, E-FUN has slipped a couple more of its tablets under the radar and into the market: the Next5 and Next6.
Successors to the decidedly poor Next3 tablet, the Next5 and Next6 share a host of similar features: both run Google Android OS 2.1 (Eclair), have SD card slots, Wi-Fi connectivity, Adobe DRM support, and 7-inch, 800 x 480 TFT LCD touchscreens. As was the case with the Next3, the Next5 and Next6 tablets will connect to Borders for ebooks as part of their e-reader capabilities.
A more standout feature of the Next5 is that it will incorporate a patented device from E-FUN, the digital APEN writing tool. According to The eBook Reader blog, the APEN allows users to create handwritten e-mails and electronic signatures, as well as add real-time notes and annotations to images and documents.
And thankfully, the Next6 will be seeing an upgrade from the Next2 and Next3 in the form of a capacitive touchscreen as opposed to the resistive touchscreen found on the previous models. Also, the Next6 will feature 4 GB of memory, double that of the Next2.
As is usually the case with lower-end tablets such as these, the Next5 and Next6 feature attractive price points at $199 and $229, respectively. Both are currently available at JR.com.
No word yet on the mysteriously skipped Next4, but it's supposed to hit shelves sometime this spring.
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The most notable other upgrade will be an improvement in battery life, which Verizon and Samsung have accomplished by developing a more efficient way for the Galaxy Tab to search for Wi-Fi hotspots.
The release of update EC02 comes at the same time as an announcement from both Verizon and Sprint that they are dropping the subsidized price of the Galaxy Tab to $200 with a two-year agreement. The 3G Tab’s price has been on a steady decline over the past few months, and at this point the on-contract Galaxy Tab is possibly the least expensive tablet available, with the exception of some generic options sporting tragic specs.
Additionally, the Samsung Galaxy Tab Wi-Fi-only version is set to make its release, and will begin retailing April 10 for $350.
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