Engadget has learned that Sony is not about to be left out of the tablet market. According to “two highly trusted and independent sources,” the company is working on at least two prototype devices including one codenamed “S1.”
According to the revealed details, the Sony S1 will be powered by a Tegra 2 processor and Google Android 3.0 with a customized Sony user interface. It will come with a 9.4-inch capacitive touchscreen display (with a resolution of 1,280 by 800 pixels), both front- and rear-facing cameras, a USB port, and and IR port. Aside from on/off and volume buttons, it might also have a ‘Q’ button for quick access to Qriocity.
The form factor sounds interesting. The ‘wrapped’ design is meant to mimic a magazine folded backward so that a single page is visible to read. The design shifts the center of gravity towards the bulbous end of the device, making it easier to hold for an extended period of time.
On the software side, the S1 will feature Qriocity, Sony’s digital service for games, ebooks and videos. It will also come with Sony PS One games and PlayStation integration (possibly going as far as being PlayStation Suite certified like the just announced Sony Ericsson Xperia Play).
Sony is now targeting a September shipment date (although this has already slipped a few times apparently) with a price around US$599 for a Wi-Fi-only version.