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Customizable Linux tablet features 10.1-inch multitouch display
2010-08-30 Article Rating:   / 3
Japanese reseller Redstar has begun taking pre-orders for an ARM11-based 10.1-inch tablet computer from RealEase that runs the new Shogo Linux distro. The Shogo Tablet runs on a 533MHz Freescale i.MX37 system-on-chip (SoC) with 256MB RAM and 4GB flash, and offers a 1024 × 600 capacitive display, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, plus 3G and Zigbee options, says RealEase.
RealEase briefly announced the Shogo Tablet and Shogo Linux operating system back in April, and began shipping the tablet earlier this month directly to OEMs for $500, with discounts for larger quantities. Now, Japan-based Redstar is taking pre-orders for the Shogo Tablet for 56,800 Yen (about $673), according to AkihabaraNews.
 Shogo Tablet The company says it will work with third parties to develop customized versions of the tablet with different screen sizes and specifications, including removing features or expanding features, such as boosting internal NAND flash up to 64GB. Meanwhile, a higher-end version based on Freescale's 1GHz, Cortex-A8-based i.MX51 SoC is due later this year, says RealEase.   Shogo Linux home screen (left) and Webkit browser with virtual keyboard (right) (Click on either to enlarge) Shogo Linux stands out with its Webkit browser, offering HTML5 support now, with Adobe Flash 10 promised in the fourth quarter. The release also provides Nokia's Qt 4.6.3 development framework, the SQLite database, and a multimedia player, says RealEase. The current version of the Shogo Tablet uses Freescale's i.MX37 SoC, which offers an ARM 1136JF-S core clocked to 533MHz. The SoC provides an image processing unit and video decoding features aimed at portable media players (PMPs), and can run on as little as one Volt, says Freescale.  Shogo Tablet detail (Click to enlarge) The Shogo Tablet's 10.1-inch screen offers 1024 x 600 resolution, as well as multitouch capacitive technology, says the company. Other standard features are said to include a 10/100 Ethernet port, Bluetooth 2.0, and 802.11b/g, with an 802.11n option available later this year. Optional wireless features are said to include 3G cellular and ZigBee radios, both available via internal USB dongles. GPS is not available, suggesting that the big-screen Shogo is designed primarily for use around the house. The tablet weighs 1.76 pounds (800 grams) and measures 10.55 x 6.61 x 0.63 inches (268 x 168 x 16mm), says RealEase.  Shogo Linux on the as an e-reader The device ships with a three-hour battery, but as noted, it may be purchased with an optional battery that lasts up to eight hours, according to RealEase. Other features include a foldable foot and VESA mounting, says the company. The problem with offering Linux, as opposed to Android, is the lack of applications available for the device. The company does not offer a detailed list of available software, but in addition to the browser, mentions e-reading capabilities. The Qt support, at least, points to easier porting of existing apps than might otherwise be possible. Availability The Shogo Tablet is available for pre-order via Redstar at around 56,800 Yen (about $673), at Redstar's Japanese language site, here. A final ship date does not appear to be listed. RealEase, meanwhile, is offering the tablet to OEMs for $500 plus shipping from Hong Kong, with discounts available for quantity purchases. More information on the tablet may be found at RealEase's English language site, here. The AkihabaraNews story may be found here. Related Stories:
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