Google to Release 7-inch Ice Cream Sandwich Tablet

By Vincent Funaro, Christian Post Reporter Friday, February 24, 2012

Google is expected to release its own 7-inch tablet sometime this year, according to CNET's Brooke Crothers.

Crothers stated that Display search analyst Richard Shim expects 1.5 million to 2 million units with a 1280x800 resolution to enter into production during the springtime.

According to Shim, Google will begin carrying out its plans to enter into the tablet market that is currently dominated by Apple starting in April.

One of the rumors circulating around is that the upcoming device will include Android 4.0, Ice Cream Sandwich as well as have Nexus ties.

Google's chairperson Eric Schmidt jump started the rumors and speculation when he announced that the company would be working on releasing a tablet of the highest quality within the next six months late last year.

Google recently acquired Motorola Mobility so creating an efficient tablet is a strong possibility for the company. It also will acquire the rights to the 10.1-inch Xoom tablet, 10.1-inch Xyboard and the 8.2-inch Xyboard.

Schmidt began speaking about this high-end tablet back in Decenber shortly after Google purchased Motorola. It is possible that the company will begin to create its own hardware in other arenas as well including smartphones.

Google is currently responsible for powering the other part of the tablet market that is not dominated by Apple with its iPad. The company's Android software comes pre-installed on various companies' devices including Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Sony and Samsung with its line of Galaxy Tabs.

The company seems to want to create its own hardware in order to set the standard for its extremely popular software currently available on both smartphones and tablets.

Android 4.0, Ice Cream Sandwich needs a flagship tablet since it already has a smartphone for that purpose with the Galaxy Nexus. This could be a great opportunity for Samsung to create that and improve on its eco system.