Smartphone-tablet hybrid is latest challenge to iPad

JAKARTA

ASIA has continued with its challenge to Apple’s iPad, with the latest coming from Picopad, a mobile Internet device built on Google’s Android platform.

The device, developed by Singapore-incorporated technology company Axioo, has both tablet and phone functions, the Jakarta Globe reported.

Mr David Kartono, Axioo’s Vice-president for Product Development and International Sales, said “the gap between a smartphone and a notebook” inspired the company to create the product.

A smartphone-tablet hybrid would allow the user to work on the go with ease, while a notebook computer would be too cumbersome, said Mr Kartono.

Added Mr Budi Wahyu Jati, corporate director of Axioo: “There are no (Indonesian) products between them. Axioo saw this as an opportunity.”

The Picopad comes with a customised design for Indonesians and supports the Indonesian language, the Jakarta Globe said.

Users can also access Android Market, which contains more than 100,000 paid and/or free applications.

The touchscreen Picopad measures 18cm by 11cm – almost the same as the Samsung Galaxy Tab – and weighs 375g.

It was launched in Indonesia late last month and is also available in Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam.

The Picopad is priced at about US$520 (S$668).

Source: www.mypaper.com.sg