Without a shred of doubt, 2009 has been the year of the e-reading device, and new models will come out quickly next year. But computer manufacturers are trying hard to shift consumer attention to the tablet PC.
Apple’s tablet is still a rumor, as is Microsoft’s in-process "tablet-booklet" Courier (in the "late prototype" stage of development, according to the CNET gadget blog). But ICD has released concrete information on its Vega Tablet, which will run Android 2.0:
“Innovative Converged Devices (ICD), a world class design and engineering company in the mobile and computing industry, today unveiled Vega, their first in a future line of Android products of low priced, full featured High Definition entertainment and information devices that feature 3G connectivity, a Tegra processor, full streaming media, and a touch interface.
"The 7-inch, 11-inch and 15-inch devices are scheduled for distribution through Tier 1 carriers across North America, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East in the first half of 2010.
"ICD will provide full specifications and demo the Vega device at the 2010 International CES Show, which takes place January 7-10 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.” (company press release issued November 11).
Several manufacturers will be trying to "sell" their tablets as e-reading devices -- a move supported by Amazon itself with the recent announcement that it will bring Kindle software to the PC.
