The last thing that the world needs right now is another Android-powered touchscreen tablet. But if it’s cheap and can do more than simply run Android, then why the heck not, right? That seems to be the idea behind the latest Peacock Imports creations, which include two different-sized tablets as well as a PC-on-a-stick contraption.
What’s interesting about these devices is that not only will they be able to run full versions of Google’s Android OS, but they will also be able to run Linux. Users will be able to dual-boot, with one OS installed on local storage and the other installed on a bootable SD card. Peacock Imports is effectively selling two devices rolled up into one here. But are there any takers?
If the performance of their most recent crowdfunding venture on Indiegogo is any indication, the answer to that question is a resounding yes. In less than a month, they have reached their target goal of $49,000. Now they are scheduled to start shipping their first 7-inch and 10-inch tablets once January 2013 finally rolls around. This is all part of their plan to deliver a so-called True Linux Tablet that is “free of Google and Android’s restrictions” at an affordable price.
As of this time’s writing, the PengPod Indiegogo page has raised over $70,000. So what exactly is in store for those who helped fund the upcoming PengPod devices from Peacock Imports?
Firstly, those who donated $120 will get the PengPod 700, a 7-inch tablet with a capacitive touchscreen display plus the ability to run Android or Linux. Its other features include 1GB of RAM, 8GB of internal storage, a 1.3-megapixel front-facing camera, HDMI-out, built-in Wi-Fi, a 3.3Ah battery, and support for USB-on-the-go.
There will be a second tablet delivered to those who donated $185. It’s called the PengPod 1000, and it features a 10-inch 1024×600 screen, HDMI-out, 1GB of RAM, 8GB of storage, two USB ports, Wi-Fi, a 0.3-megapixel camera, speakers, a 6Ah battery, and support for USB-on-the-go. Both tablets can be used with external keyboards. The same also applies to that PC-on-a-stick contraption mentioned earlier.
Now, you might have noticed that both of PengPod’s tablets are severely limited when it comes to hardware. For comparison, Google’s own flagship 10-inch Android tablet now sports a 10.1-inch screen with a whopping 2560 x 1600 pixel native resolution. But the main selling point of these PengPod tablets is that they can run Linux alongside Android, and that users will be able to boot into either operating system any time they want. Only time will tell whether or not the idea of a “true Linux tablet” with an affordable price tag and these kinds of software niceties ever truly picks up.
What do you think of these new dual-booting Linux- and Android-powered tablets? Would you consider getting them at their current prices? What other features would you like to see in them? Let’s hear those thoughts in the comments.
