LG Electronics has launched the LG G Pad 8.3 tablet, the first device to be designated a Google Play Edition tablet and the first tablet to be launched under Google’s Android Open Source Project.
The tablet features the latest Android operating system, Android 4.4 KitKat, alongside LG’s 1920 x 1200 WUXGA Full HD IPS screen, with LG promising the combination of technologies offers the “optimal viewing experience”.
It is billed as perfect for visual-oriented uses, with apps able to use the full screen resolution, and users can also hide the status and navigation bars to enjoy visual-rich content such as photos, videos and games.
“LG’s working relationship with Google has always been strong and our collaboration on the first-ever Google Play Edition tablet is proof of that commitment,” said Jong-seok Park, president and chief executive officer (CEO) of the LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company.
“The LG G Pad 8.3 Google Play Edition is a device with hardware and software that has been optimised for a truly consumer-friendly experience. There’s nothing else like it out there in the marketplace.”
The device houses a 1.7 gigahertz (GHz) Quad-Core Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 processor, and provides 16 gigabytes (GB) of memory, as well as a 4,600 milliampere-hour (mAh) battery for long-life. The tablet features a 5 megapixel (MP) rear camera, and a 1.3 MP front camera.
According to LG, the device was developed based on consumer feedback resulting in a compact, sleek device which is comfortable to hold in one hand.
The tablet will first become available in the United States (US) via Google Play today, at the price of US$349.99.
The company said it has not yet decided on further country releases.
