Z

iiO android tablets were launched in London on 2nd November by Creative, to modest applause. Creative with its ZiiO android tablets aims to push entertainment and mobile computing forward with a super-compact portable device you’ll love to play with. But does the ZiiO android tablet cut it? Is it smart enough and playful enough to compete with the iPad?
Ziio Android-based Tablet

Well, the specs are certainly juicy. Creative ZiiO android tablets come in 7-inch and 10-inch versions and run the Android 2.1 OS. The gadget promises top-notch sound through the Pure Android Audio application which gives X-Fi and apt-X oomph – the X-Fi Crystalizer makes up for detail lost in CD ripping and the X-Fi Expand technology makes your games more lifelike and your music clearer. Of course, Creative ZiiO android tablets boast Bluetooth connectivity. You can enjoy wireless sound on the move through compatible Bluetooth headphones and it’s not limited to music – pick out a movie, browse the Internet or play games and it’ll sound good too.

The ZiiO android tablet boasts a front-facing camera, a built in microphone and a handy microSD card slot. Input comes from a mini USB and 3.5 stereo jacks. Plus GPS and FM radio if you’re not already gadgetted-out. In terms of processor speed, you’ll bag a Creative processor but the speed is still being optimized. Battery time looks like being around 10 hours of mixed use or 25 hours of music. But the screen is a sticking point for some users. The resistive touchscreen is unlikely to set the world on fire and the image – 800 x 480 pixel resolution on the 7-inch version – won’t win prizes. The resistive touchscreen just isn’t as responsive as the more expensive versions.

Of course, the ZiiO android tablet also does what other android tablets do best – thanks to Wi-Fi compatibility built in. You can surf the net, shop online, send emails and update your Facebook while lounging on the sofa, walking the dog or sitting in a café. Back at home, link the ZiiO android tablet to your HDTV for impactful viewing. It’s certainly light and it looks flashy, although the black and white color choices are not exactly inspiring. At 13.7mm in width, you’ll be able to comfortably hold it.

Does the ZiiO android tablet measure up in terms of price? The gadget is available in 8GB and 16GB versions and comes in at around £199 for the 8GB version and £219 for the 16GB. The 10-inch screen ZiiO android tablet will set you back around £249 or £300 for the 16GB. Set some money aside to shop for apps, games and books at the Creative ZiiStore. The price for this pair of portable friends is around half that of the Apple iPad or Samsung Galaxy Pad, a key advantage if you’re keen on keeping your cash in your pocket.

With the abundance of options available in the mobile computing market, does the world need another nifty handheld device? I guess the proof is in the playing. If it works, it’s got a place. If the technology is lacking, it could turn into just another gadget burning a hole in your pocket. The Creative ZiiO android tablet can be yours in December 2010. Will you be playing?