Binatone ReadMe melds Android tablets and UMPCs of old
Over the last couple years, mobile computing has transitioned from being UMPC-oriented to being tablet-based. Most manufacturers have jumped on the tablet bandwagon as a result, but hardware maker Binatone has decided to release an interesting hybrid of the old and the new in its latest device, the ReadMe mobile.
The manufacturer is marketing its device as an ereader, but that is clearly not all it is. As you can see from the picture above, it looks like an Android tablet, but it has a keyboard and directional pad reminiscent of UMPCS.
On the hardware side, the ReadMe is somewhat lacking. Its 7-inch display only sports an 800 x 400 resolution and is not touch-enabled, the battery only lasts for 6 hours, only 2GB of internal memory is provided, and the Android 2.1 OS is a bit outdated. It does have WiFi, but no 3G or Bluetooth. There is no information about the processor, but based on the rest of the specifications I wouldn't expect anything very powerful.
The asking price of about $200 for the device is relatively cheap, but considering the meager specifications and niche use case for the device, I think it is priced too high for the general market. The lack of a touchscreen really hurts the device, because it would have much more appeal if it could be used as a tablet. I know I would be looking to buy one if it weren't for this flaw. Still, if you are looking for a UMPC-like device with Android, or just want to try out new hardware designs, this just might be the device for you.
[Pocket-lint]
