$499 Android-powered Wikipad gaming tablet launching October
Exclusively available via Gamestop
The Wikipad is an interesting Android gaming device that aims to bridge the gap between console gaming and touchscreen tablet gaming.
Featuring a 10.1" display with a 1280x800 resolution and powered by an Nvidia Tegra 3 T30 quad-core 1.4GHz processor, the Wikipad runs Android 4.1 Jelly Bean.
But as well as being a tablet, it adds gaming controls with a slide-in case that includes dual analog sticks and a bunch of buttons (including four shoulder buttons).
It also has the support of PlayStation Mobile, and content will be available via Google Play and highlighted by Nvidia's TegraZone.
More concerning, however, is the $499.99 price tag - something that's been announced as part of the exclusive pre-order program via US retailer Gamespot.
What, no 3D?When the Wikipad was unveiled at CES back in January, it was advertised as the first Android tablet to feature glasses-free 3D.
When its technical specs were released in July, however, there was no mention of the stereoscopic 3D, and we correctly concluded that Wikipad Inc had jettisoned that feature.
Competing with whom?While the Wikipad is a robust and well-equipped tablet, distinguished from other 10.1" competitors by its analog sticks and suite of buttons, the big question facing the mobile gaming world is who would be interested in purchasing a $500 dedicated gaming tablet?
Weighing 560g / 1.23lbs with the controller shell attached, the Wikipad is nearly twice as heavy as the Nintendo 3DS and PS Vita.
Additionally, the 3DS edges the Wikipad out in terms of 3D gaming, and the PS Vita offers a 3G model while the Wikipad is available in a single wifi-only configuration.
Finally, there's the issue of the price. It's much more expensive than comparable 7" Android tablets such as Nexus 7 or Kindle Fire HD, while it doesn't have the consumer desire of an iPad.
Still, with a focus on gaming and the promise of more content hooks up to be announced in future, it's a device we'll certainly be keeping our eye on as the launch plans develop.
