Report: Google to launch faster, cheaper Nexus 7 in July
It has long been assumed that Google would release a followup to last year’s Nexus 7 this summer, but a new report is providing some of the first details on the device’s hardware and release strategies. According to Reuters, the new slate is on pace for a July launch and will feature upgraded hardware in comparison to last year’s model while potentially striking a lower price point.
The second-generation Nexus 7 is said to have a higher screen resolution and thinner bezel. It will also eschew an NVIDIA chipset for Qualcomm-made silicon. The specifics on the processor are not known, but considering the arrival of Snapdragon 800 chips this summer, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the new Nexus 7 sport the late model Snapdragon 600 CPU.
In an effort to compete with the likes of Amazon and Apple directly on price, Google’s “zero-margin” approach could see the tablet launch at a ridiculously cheap $149. It is also possible that the price will stick at $199 with older Nexus 7 models seeing a steep discount. The aim continues to be on driving revenues via web advertising and content accessed via the tablet.
Google hopes to ship 8 million units of the ASUS-made slate this year. Meanwhile ASUS hopes to ship 12 million tablets total (including the Nexus 7) in 2013. The new Nexus 7 is expected to be announced at Google I/O in May.
[via Reuters]