The Indian government is planning to partner with Taiwan-based PC makers to obtain components for the world’s cheapest tablet PC, Aakash. According to Sandeep Yadav, who is a convenor of the project, India is seeking participation of the Taiwan-based PC makers in the bidding for the second generation of the Aakash tablet, UbiSlate 7. Yadav says that the Taiwanese manufacturers can help India keep price of the new tablet less than $35. He also pointed out that 10-20 per cent of the Aakash tablet components were provided by the Taiwanese companies. He further disclosed that the Indian government plans to roll out 200 million Aakash tablets (upgraded version) in the next three years. Yadav also acknowledges that the Aakash 2 a.k.a UbiSlate 7 is a better choice than the original Aakash.
The Aakash tablet was released online by the UK-based developer DataWind. The Aakash received a massive response from the customers, as the device was sold out in less than a week after its launch. Unfortunately, DataWind has not yet started distribution of the Aakash tablet.
The 7-inch Aakash tablet runs on Android 2.2 Froyo operating system and features Arm11-366MHz processor. The Aakash tablet is priced at Rs. 2,500. The Indian government is providing the Aakash tablet to students at a subsidised price of Rs. 1,700. For more details read Your guide to the new $35 Aakash Tablet.
The UbiSlate 7 has better specs than the original Aakash and costs just Rs. 500 more. The device is expected to be launched early next year.
Also read,
Vote and Win!
Digit Icons of Trust 2011 Survey
Visit http://thinkdigit.com/trust to vote for your favorite tech brands in India.
Survey participation gives you a chance to win exciting gifts like wireless input devices, earphones and special edition Digit branded T-shirts.
As an appreciation of your valuable time and input, every participant will receive an assured gift in the form of Digit discount vouchers.
We encourage you to participate in multiple surveys to increase your chances of winning more goodies.