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A year after Apple Inc. launched the iPad, Sony Corp. said Tuesday it plans to enter the tablet-computer segment later this year with two models running Google Inc.'s Android operating system.
Sony's two tablets—code-named S1 and S2—will be released late this year. The S1 is a slate-style tablet computer with a 9.4-inch touchscreen display that is thick on one end and tapers. The S2 is a shell-shaped device that opens and closes, with two 5.5-inch touch-screen displays
The two devices may not debut in a simultaneous global launch, Sony said, and may instead launch at different times in different markets.
The company said the two devices will also come with wireless connectivity through Wi-Fi or 3G/4G services. Sony did not specify which mobile carriers it plans to work with, and offered no details on pricing or sales targets.
Sony faces an uphill climb in the tablet computer market, already dominated by Apple's iPad. While demand for tablets is strong, the field is also crowded with nearly every electronics and PC maker unveiling offerings of their own. Sony has said it aims to establish itself as the No. 2 tablet maker after Apple by 2012.
Sony's two tablets—code-named S1 and S2—will be released late this year. The S1 is a slate-style tablet computer with a 9.4-inch touchscreen display that is thick on one end and tapers. The S2 is a shell-shaped device that opens and closes, with two 5.5-inch touch-screen displays
The two devices may not debut in a simultaneous global launch, Sony said, and may instead launch at different times in different markets.The company said the two devices will also come with wireless connectivity through Wi-Fi or 3G/4G services. Sony did not specify which mobile carriers it plans to work with, and offered no details on pricing or sales targets.
Sony faces an uphill climb in the tablet computer market, already dominated by Apple's iPad. While demand for tablets is strong, the field is also crowded with nearly every electronics and PC maker unveiling offerings of their own. Sony has said it aims to establish itself as the No. 2 tablet maker after Apple by 2012.
