Sony S1 and Sony S2 are coming into conversations almost every day now with just months to go before the public release in September. Today, Sony allowed reviewers from various forums some hands-on time with its tablet devices. The tabs, especially Sony S1, got a good score for hardware while a fair review of the software was not possible because of lack of time. Meanwhile, AT&T has announced itself as the sole US mobile broadband provider for Sony S2, the dual screen tablet.
First, the review. According to engadget, Sony S1 is a delightful tablet to hold. The wedge shape that gives the tab a folded magazine look is more than just a design gimmick. The shape makes the tab very comfortable to hold in one hand, providing a good viewing angle when put down on a table. The back has a dot textured finish, providing a firm non-slip grip. The weight of the tab is pretty well-balanced too, in fact it’s lighter than many of tabs out there (read HP TouchPad). Viewing angles were good even in natural and fluorescent lighting while movie playback rocked.
Coming to Sony S2. The clamshell shaped tablet is eye-catching because of its unique form factor. When you open it, the dual screens look nice and bright though the space between is still significant despite Sony’s attempts to minimize it. The screens can work together for a canvas like picture or break up into two visuals.
Where the software is concerned, engadget reviewers didn’t get a lot of time to play on the tab, at least not enough to pass judgment on how much the Honeycomb experience differs from other tablets on the market. Sony has tweaked the user experience with its own technology of course, that’s evident in the Quick View and Quick Touch Panel. But more time is required on the tablets for a complete review.
Sony S1 and S2 are both PlayStation certified. This is where Sony S2′s dual screens really deliver.
Bottom line – Sony S1 and Sony S2 look good and feel good. The prognosis for their success is good. Of course, a lot depends on the pricing of the tablets too. We’ve only heard estimates till now, no official word from Sony yet.
Meanwhile, AT&T is ramping up its 4G HSPA+ offerings with Sony S2 heading to it in the next few months. With a qualifying data plan, users of Sony S2 will have access to AT&T’s mobile broadband network and unlimited access to AT&T’s more than 20,000 hot spots nationwide. Distribution and pricing will be announced at launch.
Things are falling in line for Sony’s tablets to make an appearance. We’re looking forward to the rest of the promised 5 teaser videos from Sony. They’ve been quite interesting till now.
Head on to Notebook Italia for some close up shots of Sony S1 and Sony S2.
[via androidcentral]
