Latest news with #AndroidTablets
WIRED
6 days ago
- WIRED
iPad Not for You? Try One of These Android Tablets for Size
Photograph: Nena Farrell Google Pixel Tablet for $399: Google has a spotty history with Android tablets, going from the highs of the Nexus 7 to the, well, distinct averageness of the Pixel Tablet (7/10, WIRED Recommends). The 10.2-inch LCD screen is one of the highlights; the size and 439-gram weight are just right for carrying around, and Google's fuss-free Android software is simple and logical. However, the Google Tensor G2 processor can get hot under strain, and there's only 8 GB of RAM. What makes it special is the Speaker Dock, which turns the Pixel Tablet into a big smart home display. But unlike the Nest Hub Max, you can take the screen off the dock and use it separately. The Charging Dock's speaker is loud and sounds excellent, and the Pixel Tablet's microphones and large screen make using Gemini so easy. It's especially great if you are in the Google Home smart home ecosystem, as you can set the lock screen to double as a control panel for all your devices. Used alone, the Pixel Tablet can't compete with the OnePlus Pad 3 or Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE, but with the dock, it becomes a unique dual-use product with an emphasis on the smart home. Photograph: GrandPad GrandPad for $780: If you want a tablet for an elderly relative, or you feel you'd rather have a single, easy-to-use device instead of a tablet and a phone, the GrandPad (8/10, WIRED Recommends) may be an option worth investigating. It's an 8-inch tablet with a front and rear camera, which comes with a case, a charging dock, a stylus, plus an included 4G LTE connection. The interface has been simplified and is controlled using large buttons with clear text, plus quick access to key websites, apps, and features, including voice and video calls. The GrandPad is designed to help those who aren't familiar with technology still enjoy all it has to offer. In addition to the basics, there are 15 different games, curated music stations, streaming radio, a magnifying glass and flashlight tool, email, and a private family-only voice and video call network. There's also fast, 24/7 customer support should anyone run into problems, and a companion app for other family members. We love the GrandPad's concept and the way it promises to help more people enjoy modern technology without concern or feeling overwhelmed by complex software. However, you don't purchase it like other tablets on our list, and the GrandPad has a monthly subscription attached. Pay up front for a year, and it costs $780, while the monthly plan costs $95 per month. And while this does include the 4G LTE connection and 24/7 customer support, it still makes it an expensive system. However, what it offers is unusual, and few other tablets make using the software so simple, and the customer support may be worth the price alone for some. Amazon Fire HD 8: Small tablets aren't common anymore, but the Fire HD 8 gets both the size and the price right. The 8-inch screen has a 1280 x 800-pixel resolution, which may not sound like much, but it's fine for watching videos and playing a few games. Like the Fire Max 11, it has Amazon's version of Android without Google Play installed, but you'll still be able to download Netflix and most other video apps, plus get access to all the content on Amazon Prime. The compact dimensions and 337-gram weight make it great for carrying around in a bag, the battery roughly lasts 13 hours on a single charge, and there are a pair of cameras for video calling too. It's not a high-performance tablet—there's only 32 GB of storage on the cheapest model, and even the charging is basic, with a full charge likely to take a massive five hours. However, because it's $100, it's easy to forgive the shortcomings. If you want a more powerful small tablet, the Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3 will be a better choice, but neither is suited for work due to the small screen. Amazon regularly puts its Kindle and Fire ranges on sale, so look out for better deals if you're not in a hurry. Tablet Accessories Twelve South HoverBar Duo (Gen 2) Photograph: Twelve South Twelve South HoverBar Duo (Gen 2) for $80: Twelve South will tell you the HoverBar Duo is designed for the Apple iPad, but look down into its FAQ and you'll find it's also compatible with other devices with a minimum 5-inch and maximum 8.68-inch height. Check the specs, and this means it'll hold the OnePlus Pad 3, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE, and many other devices, too. It's great news, as iPad owners can't keep this excellent stand to themselves. We like it due to the QuickSwitch tab, which lets you unclip the flexible arm from its desktop stand and attach it to a shelf mount, considerably increasing its versatility. Desktop stands are fine if you're using the tablet on a table, but the shelf mount means your tablet can be kept off the surface, making it handy for use in the kitchen or in places where a surface may not be available at all, such as the bathroom or bedroom. Twelve South's products are always well-made and attractively designed. Keychron B1 Pro for $40: If you want to work on a tablet, you're probably going to need a physical keyboard. There are specific keyboard cases available for most tablets, but they can be very expensive, and are not the only option. A standalone Bluetooth keyboard makes good sense as it can be used with other mobile devices or a desktop computer. Choose wisely, and it's easy to carry around too. Keychron's keyboards are all excellent, and the 425-gram, 75% layout B1 Pro is a very good choice if you want to slip it into your bag along with your tablet. Keychron claims the internal battery will last for 1,200 hours on a single charge, the keyboard's map can be customized, and it's compatible with both Windows and Mac computers when you're not using it with a tablet. Unfortunately, the keyboard is not backlit, which does limit its use a little, but for $40, it's a solid value considering its versatility, the build quality, and the pleasing typing experience. Ikea Havrehoj Tablet Stand for $15: There are dozens, even hundreds, of different stands for tablets, but this one from Ikea represents a strong blend of value, design, and versatility. It's made of metal with a soft, cork surface where the tablet rests, with the ability to raise, lower, and angle the platform to get exactly the right position. There's even a little hook on the back of the stand for a pair of headphones. The tablet support has a gap in the middle, so you can still charge the slate in portrait orientation. Ikea's tablet stand is suitably minimalist, works for any brand of tablet, and at $15, it's an excellent value too. Pair it with the Keychron B1 Pro keyboard, and you've got a cool, low-cost setup for work and video. Staedtler Noris Digital Pencil for $28: The world of styluses is confusing. There are two different standards to be aware of, and famed writing implement brand Staedtler supports devices with an EMR screen, which includes Samsung's phones and tablets, along with a host of Chromebooks and other tablets. The Noris is made from upcycled wood for a truly tactile feel, a 0.7-mm tip modeled on a classic pencil, and 4,096 levels of pressure to make it appealing to artists. The Noris is a fun alternative to Samsung's S Pen range. It doesn't have a battery, so it doesn't need recharging. You don't have to install special software; it's compatible with a tablet's screen rather than particular apps, and even comes in two sizes to make it suitable for different hand sizes. Penoval USI 2.0 Stylus for $60: The EMR standard is joined by the USI (Universal Stylus Initiative) standard, and it's used by the Google Pixel Tablet, the Amazon Fire Max 11, and a host of Chromebooks. The Penoval USI 2.0 Stylus has a D-shaped aluminum body for extra grip and feel, a triangular nib, and magnets inside to attach it to your tablet's body. Unlike the EMR stylus, which takes power from the device's screen, the USI stylus has its own battery, which should last around 90 hours before it requires a recharge using a USB-C cable. Like the EMR stylus, it has 4.096 levels of pressure sensitivity, palm rejection technology, and an eraser on the end of the pencil. This may sound like a small thing, but it's a wonderful part of the stylus experience, as turning the pen over to erase something on screen is surprisingly rewarding. It doesn't need pairing with your tablet either, so it works immediately. Samsung Type-C USB Flash Drive for $27: Some Android tablets have expandable storage space using a microSD card, but not all of them do. In addition to buying an external storage device to increase the native memory, you may find it necessary to transfer files between devices, and an external drive makes this simple. There are many options out there, but we like the portability, range of memory options, durability, and speed of Samsung's Type-C USB Flash Drive. The tiny memory stick supports the USB 3.2 Gen 1 standard, transfers data at 400 MB/s, connects to most devices that have a USB-C port, and is resistant to water, shock, and magnetic fields. It doesn't require a power source and is specifically made for mobile devices, so you shouldn't encounter performance or compatibility problems.
Phone Arena
09-07-2025
- Phone Arena
There's never been a better time than right now to buy Samsung's Galaxy Tab S10 FE
If you were expecting some sort of miraculous new tablet announcement from Samsung at today's Unpacked event, I'm sad (but by no means surprised) to inform you that hasn't happened and at the same time excited to bring you news of the best Galaxy Tab S10 FE and Tab S10 FE+ deals to date. Released just a few months ago, the brand's latest jumbo-sized Android mid-rangers are naturally unlikely to receive sequels anytime soon, which is only one of multiple reasons why you should consider a purchase at an unprecedented $70 discount right now. Wi-Fi Only, 128GB Storage, 8GB RAM, 10.9-Inch IPS LCD Screen with 2304 x 1440 Pixel Resolution and 90Hz Refresh Rate Technology, Samsung Exynos 1580 Processor, Android 15 with One UI 7, Galaxy AI, IP68 Water and Dust Resistance, 8,000mAh Battery, 45W Charging, 13MP Rear-Facing Camera, 12MP Front-Facing Camera, microSD Card Slot, Dual Speakers with AKG Technology, Three Color Options, US Version, 2-Year Warranty, S Pen Included, Amazon Prime Membership Required This offer is not available in your area. Wi-Fi Only, 256GB Storage, 12GB RAM, 10.9-Inch IPS LCD Screen with 2304 x 1440 Pixel Resolution and 90Hz Refresh Rate Technology, Samsung Exynos 1580 Processor, Android 15 with One UI 7, Galaxy AI, IP68 Water and Dust Resistance, 8,000mAh Battery, 45W Charging, 13MP Rear-Facing Camera, 12MP Front-Facing Camera, microSD Card Slot, Dual Speakers with AKG Technology, Three Color Options, US Version, 2-Year Warranty, S Pen Included, Amazon Prime Membership Required This offer is not available in your area. Wi-Fi Only, 128GB Storage, 8GB RAM, 13.1-Inch IPS LCD Screen with 2880 x 1800 Pixel Resolution and 90Hz Refresh Rate Technology, Samsung Exynos 1580 Processor, Android 15 with One UI 7, Galaxy AI, IP68 Water and Dust Resistance, 10,090mAh Battery, 45W Charging, 13MP Rear-Facing Camera, 12MP Front-Facing Camera, microSD Card Slot, Dual Speakers with AKG Technology, Three Color Options, US Version, 2-Year Warranty, S Pen Included, Amazon Prime Membership Required This offer is not available in your area. Wi-Fi Only, 256GB Storage, 12GB RAM, 13.1-Inch IPS LCD Screen with 2880 x 1800 Pixel Resolution and 90Hz Refresh Rate Technology, Samsung Exynos 1580 Processor, Android 15 with One UI 7, Galaxy AI, IP68 Water and Dust Resistance, 10,090mAh Battery, 45W Charging, 13MP Rear-Facing Camera, 12MP Front-Facing Camera, microSD Card Slot, Dual Speakers with AKG Technology, Three Color Options, US Version, 2-Year Warranty, S Pen Included, Amazon Prime Membership Required This offer is not available in your area. Both devices are sold by Amazon at the same 70 bucks under their list prices in both 128 and 256GB storage configurations and three color options (for each variant), the only (obvious) condition being an obligatory Prime membership. Of course, the Galaxy Tab S11 and Tab S11 Ultra Samsung most likely plans to release in the fall will offer much better specifications and fancier designs than their FE-branded cousins, but the price points will definitely reflect that. As things stand, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE and Tab S10 FE Plus are without a doubt among the best Android tablets around, sharing a respectable Exynos 1580 processor, 90Hz display refresh rate technology, IP68 water and dust resistance, and perhaps most notably, built-in S Pen support. The battery life is not bad either, especially for two devices with razor-thin 6mm profiles, and the same goes for the 45W charging capabilities. Oh, and have I mentioned that Samsung is promising to maintain the software on the Tab S10 FE and Tab S10 FE+ up to date for no less than seven years (!!!) after their commercial debut? Now that's what I call future-proof Android devices... you'd be foolish to snub in favor of the costlier Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra or distant Tab S11. Secure your connection now at a bargain price! We may earn a commission if you make a purchase This offer is not available in your area.
Android Authority
03-07-2025
- Android Authority
Google is testing a smaller, more reachable Gemini overlay on tablets
Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority TL;DR Google is rolling out a UI update for the Gemini app on Android tablets that shrinks the size of the overlay. The new overlay is about one-third the width of the screen instead of two-thirds and is anchored to the right side. This updated interface only applies to the standard Gemini experience and seems to be part of a slow server-side rollout. There are a lot of AI chatbots you can talk to these days, but I personally use Google Gemini on all my devices. It's smart, integrates with my favorite Google services, and is available out of the box on all my Android devices. While the experience has largely been the same across my phones and tablets, Google has recently made a few small tweaks to account for the differences in form factor. For instance, Google recently rolled out a UI update that brought the Gemini mobile app more in line with the web version. The update added a navigation drawer on the left-hand side that's expanded by default on tablets but collapsed on phones. Now, the company is rolling out yet another update that shrinks the Gemini overlay on tablets. As the screenshots below show, the Gemini overlay on my tablet is now significantly narrower. Previously, it spanned nearly two-thirds of the display's width; now, it only takes up about one-third. The overlay is also anchored to the right side of the screen instead of the center, making the controls easier to reach. Old Gemini overlay UI on tablets New Gemini overlay UI on tablets Tapping the text box still moves the overlay to the middle so you can more easily see what you're typing, though. Unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be a way to move the Gemini overlay to the left, which might inconvenience left-handed folks. Old Gemini text box UI on tablets New Gemini text box UI on tablets This new UI applies only to the standard Gemini experience, not Gemini Live. However, we've already found evidence suggesting that Google is working on a more compact overlay for Gemini Live as well. It's possible this updated interface will also be shrunk and moved to the side, but we won't know for sure until it rolls out. This new Gemini overlay seems to be rolling out slowly. So far, besides myself, we're only aware of two other people who have the feature: a user named Lord Reset on X and another named gelatinized on Discord. If you see this new Gemini overlay UI on your Android tablet or book-style foldable, let us know in the comments below! Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at Email our staff at news@ . You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice.
Phone Arena
01-07-2025
- Business
- Phone Arena
Early Fire Max 11 Prime Day deal returns Amazon's best tablet to its lowest price after six months
Does Amazon make the best Android tablets in the world right now? Probably not. But if you're willing to overlook the lack of Google Play support, it's hard to argue with the amazing overall value proposition of the e-commerce giant's Fire Max 11 ahead of next week's Prime Day 2025 extravaganza. That's without a doubt Amazon's greatest in-house iPad alternative, mind you, and if you're a Prime member, you can slash a whopping 90 bucks off its regular starting price of $229.99. The exact same discount applies to both 64 and 128GB storage variants sans lockscreen ads, which are normally available for $244.99 and $279.99 respectively. 64GB Storage, 4GB RAM, Octa-Core Processor, 11-Inch Screen with 2000 x 1200 Pixel Resolution, Up to 14 Hours of Battery Life, 15W Charging Support, 9W Power Adapter in the Box, MicroSD Card Slot, 8MP Front Camera, 8MP Rear Camera, Gray Color, With Lockscreen Ads, Prime Membership Required Buy at Amazon 64GB Storage, 4GB RAM, Octa-Core Processor, 11-Inch Screen with 2000 x 1200 Pixel Resolution, Up to 14 Hours of Battery Life, 15W Charging Support, 9W Power Adapter in the Box, MicroSD Card Slot, 8MP Front Camera, 8MP Rear Camera, Gray Color, Without Lockscreen Ads, Prime Membership Required Buy at Amazon 128GB Storage, 4GB RAM, Octa-Core Processor, 11-Inch Screen with 2000 x 1200 Pixel Resolution, Up to 14 Hours of Battery Life, 15W Charging Support, 9W Power Adapter in the Box, MicroSD Card Slot, 8MP Front Camera, 8MP Rear Camera, Gray Color, Without Lockscreen Ads, Prime Membership Required Buy at Amazon That means that you need to settle for so-called "sponsored screensavers" and only 64 gigs of local digital hoarding room if you want to keep your summer spending to a minimum. And yes, the Prime membership requirement applies across the board, which makes this an early Prime Day promotion likely to remain live through the end of Amazon's big sales event next Friday, July 11. Now, you have to understand that the Fire Max 11 is by no means a true rival for any of Apple's best iPads available today. But that's why the Android-based 11-incher is so much cheaper than the 2025-released "regular" iPad and even 2022's 10th Generation iPad with a 10.9-inch screen and A14 Bionic power. At its newly reduced prices, the largest member of the Fire tablet family delivers exceptional value, shining not just in the display size department, but also as far as screen quality, battery life, and even camera performance are concerned. The octa-core processor under the Fire Max 11's hood is pretty decent as well (at least for the sub-$150 segment), and compared to its brothers, sisters, and forerunners, this is also quite thin and elegant. Released more than two years ago and somewhat inexplicably left without a sequel since then, the Amazon Fire Max 11 has been sold at a $90 discount before. That's actually happened several times in the last 12 months alone, but the last time was all the way back in December 2024. So, yeah, you're looking at a Black Friday-grade deal here that hasn't been available since Christmas. How could you possibly waste such an amazingly rare money-saving opportunity? Secure your connection now at a bargain price! We may earn a commission if you make a purchase Check Out The Offer
Phone Arena
17-06-2025
- Phone Arena
The smart office buddy tablet: Doogee G6+ serves loyally, doesn't break the bank
This story is sponsored by Doogee. PhoneArena's opinions in this article have not been affected in any way! Disclaimer Doogee has recently rolled out three new series of Android-powered tablets. They focus on delivering performance for different needs at very competitive price points. The new Doogee Tab A series is a good choice for the kids at home or young students, while the Doogee Tab E series is the best performer in the range, with a giant screen for the best entertainment we will be taking a look at the Doogee Tab G6+ — from the office buddy G series. These are your portable platforms for learning or working, with just enough room on the 11-inch screen, Android 15 on board, and an accessory package that helps you get the most out of it anywhere. We live in the age of smooth animation and going for a default of 60 Hz nowadays feels like a 'downgrade'. It's cool to see that even value-priced tablets can now hit at least 90 Hz — at least Doogee's Tab G6+ IPS panel has a FHD resolution (1920 x 1200 pixels) and an 11-inch diagonal. 90 Hz refresh ensures that animations will feel smoother — anything above 60 Hz typically does. It's got a 16:10 aspect ratio for that golden middle between being usable as a movie player, but also having a tall enough canvas for productivity and website viewing. All the while a metal body keeps it looking sleek and pretty. And the Doogee Tab G6+ is not 'all work and no play' — it does have Widevine L1 Support, so premium UHD content from your video platform of choice can be played on it. Two speakers in landscape stereo ensure that you will get that fuller sound, whether you are watching or playing. Official Store | Use KOLG6 for 27% off Amazon Store | Use WPKYNS3T for 23% off The Doogee Tab G6+ is powered by an octa-core, 2.2 GHz Unisoc T7280 processor to keep it ticking. It comes with a pretty good 256 GB storage chip, and microSD expansion if that's not enough. The 8 GB of RAM on board is good to run Android 15 and its Gemini features straight on the tablet. Of course, with Google's latest operating system, you get the security perks, on-device encryption, and granular app permissions, which will matter to you if you want to use the tablet as a work of which, it does come in a package specifically to enhance your office experience. Or, more like, to help you bring your office anywhere!If you choose to get the VIP package of the Tab G6+, it will include everything you need to turn this portable tablet into a lightweight laptop replacer. The accessory pack includes: Stylus Bluetooth mouse Bluetooth keyboard Leather case Tempered screen protector Of course, this is on top of regular box contents — namely a charger and data yes, the Doogee Tab G6+ is made with mobile work and task completion in mind. It has a SIM slot for a 4G LTE connection, so you can sync your documents, files, and homework wherever you go. Download a game to play over the commute, or browse the web at robust LTE speeds — it's a convenience for the digital nomad that's constantly on the the Doogee Tab G6+ is a good choice for students or young content creators, with its note-taking features and keyboard, it can also be used by the youngest members of the family with pre-installed parental controls and Official Store | Use KOLG6 for 27% off Amazon Store | Use WPKYNS3T for 23% off
