Google announced the new Nexus 7 with a higher price tag and higher specs. The new twist is that it will be available in more retail outlets and have LTE access for some network.
Made by Asus the Nexus 7 will be the first tablet launched running Android 4.3.
The new Nexus 7 is thinner than the first version with "true 1080p"1920x1200 pixel resolution (323 pixels per inch). It is powered by a 1.5GHz Qualcomm quad-core processor with 2GB RAM, 5MP camera, front camera, and dual stereo speakers with Fraunhofer surround sound. The Wi-Fi models will be available for $229 for 16GB and $269 for the 32GB model. The Wi-Fi is dual-band. There is NFC and Bluetooth 4.0.
There is also a 32GB LTE model that will work with Verizon, and T-Mobile networks, that will sell for $349.99. It is not clear if it supports Sprint's LTE spectrum.
It weighs 0.64lbs (290g) and offers up to 9 hours of playback time. Wireless charging is built-in (Qi compatible)
North America 4G LTE bands covered are 700/750/850/1700/1900/2100 MHZ (Bands: 1/2/4/5/13/17) , HSPA+ are 850/900/1900/2100/AWS MHz (Bands: 1/2/4/5/8/10) and for GSM: 850/900/1800/1900 MHz.
Android 4.3 offers restricted profiles, limiting access to apps and content which is helpful to parents or for retail use. Therefore a Nexus 7 could show off product information, and and be used for point of sale systems. Android 4.3 also now supports Bluetooth Smart that lets mobile apps work with new devices like fitness sensors.
Restricted users don't get access to Gmail, calendar, Play Store or in-app purchases. Apps can be chosen to for each user.
Wi-Fi Nexus 7 models will be available online from the Google Play store as well as Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop, OfficeMax, RadioShack, Staples and Walmart. Sometimes you can save shipping if your order your Nexus from Walmart or Amazon. Previously only the 32GB models were available from other retailers.
Best Buy has both the New Google Nexus 7 Tablet, with 16GB and 32GB available for preorder startingat $229.99, with free shipping. Preorders are also be taken at the Google Play Store.
Last year, Google showed Nexus 7 use by children in its marketing campaigns. The latest video shows a boy get over his fear of public speaking by using the Nexus 7, he listens to music and watches speakers on the Nexus 7, reads Franklin D. Roosevelt and then he gives a speech that we can't hear that makes a girl smile. He then "Googles" "how do I ask a girl out?"