Nokia's next-gen Linux-based net tablet to incorporate HSDPA
'Maemo 5' to support accelerated 3D too
Nokia has let slip some of the key features of its next internet tablet, the successor to the N810, reviewed here. Top of the list: integrated HSDPA 3G support.
To date, none of the Nokia's Linux-based tablets - the 770, N800 and N810 - have incorporated cellularl connectivity. Like Apple's iPod Touch, they've been intended to connect to the internet primarily over a Wi-Fi link. The Nokias also have Bluetooth to allow the to link up to a net-connected mobile phone.
Nokia's next tablet, apparently codenamed 'Maemo 5' - Maemo is the tablet's Linux platform - will again support 802.11, though Nokia didn't mention which variety, suggesting it might be an 802.11n device. It also has Bluetooth 2.0+EDR and USB 2.0, just like its predecessor.
Nokia's information, presented at a Maemo-specific event this past weekend, also included reference to Texas Instruments' OMAP 3 processor and support for 3D graphics acceleration through the OpenGL-ES 2.0 API.
TI's OMAP 3515 and 3530 processors integrate PowerVR graphics cores.
Given the table's codename, you won't be surprised to learn that the machine will run the fifth generation of Maemo - to be released as OS2009, presumably.
Nokia released the N810 in November 2007 - is the Finnish phone giant gearing up to the release the successor product a year on from that?
Nokia N810 internet tablet review
COMMENTS
@Michel Vangeel : IR/RF
I totally agree with the need for a STRONG ir component on the next tablet.
I didn't buy the last one because it couldn't become the universal remote of my dreams. Mostly because of the IR lack.
And I don't speak about a 50cm module, I would strongly urge them to get a 8-10 meters transmitter... or a 8-10 meters plugin accessory, which didn't exist for the 810 either.
For the rest, having a small, light tablet where I can browse the net, check my mail, bring with me in the kitchen to read the recipe, and possibly use as the base commander for my future home automation project and/or as vnc to the home server was a nice hope/idea.
Let's hope they make it modular, and we can replace the 3G module with an IR/RF one...
Hmm...
I purchased by N800 a few months ago. Tethered it to my WiMo phone and suddenly had a decent web browser... and then suddenly a dead WiMo phone. Needless to say, I'd be thrilled if it had built-in 3G.
Did I mention I loath my HTC Apache and it's vomit inducing battery life?
What about IR/RF?
What a tablet like this needs and everyone keeps forgetting is an IR and/or RF transceiver instead of 3G, in my opinion these devices are not mobile enough to take with you everywhere but could really flourish as a multifunctional device for the "home".
These devices are great for universal remote control possibilities, especially with Maemo (linux) installed. I admit that it is possible to do this via wifi, but that's too laborious and/or slow?
Too soon for me
They had better not release a new version too soon since I just laid out for a N810 a few days before the announcement...
No 3G, more tablet.
I'd prefer "no" to these.
More efficient Bluetooth so you can connect to your phone (on contract), replace that phone and still keep the internet thingy (as opposed to having to get rid of both).
More ruggedness, more resistance to water.
Better screen (daylight readability improvements, slight increase in size to A6/6x4).
Longer battery life.
Take what the n8xx series gave us and make them more that.
Not as sexy as 3G, but a damn sight more useful.
