Some of our readers will remember the ultra-cheap tablet that was announced a while back by India’s Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal. When it was announced, we were told that it would go on sale for about $35.
It seems that the tablet is due to ship later this month, and the final retail price is around $50, which would make it the world’s cheapest tablet and very impressive that it can be produced for such a low cost.
The official price of the tablet will be around 2,200 rupees, which works out at about $50, but the Indian government will be subsidizing the tablet by around 50 percent. This subsidy would mean that it will actually cost around $25, which is even less than the original $35 quoted.
Specifications and Features
The tablet, often referred to as the “Aakash” tablet, is designed to provide affordable access to technology for students and individuals in rural areas. Despite its low cost, the tablet comes equipped with a range of features that make it a viable option for basic computing needs. It includes a 7-inch touchscreen, 256MB of RAM, 2GB of internal storage, and a microSD slot for expandable storage. Additionally, it supports Wi-Fi connectivity and has a USB port for peripheral devices.
The tablet runs on the Android operating system, which allows users to access a wide range of applications available on the Google Play Store. This makes it suitable for educational purposes, such as accessing e-books, online courses, and educational apps. The inclusion of a front-facing camera also enables video conferencing, which can be particularly useful for remote learning.
Impact and Future Prospects
The introduction of this budget-friendly tablet has the potential to revolutionize education in India. By making technology accessible to a broader audience, it can help bridge the digital divide that exists between urban and rural areas. The government’s initiative to subsidize the cost further underscores its commitment to improving educational outcomes and digital literacy.
It looks like around 10,000 of the tablets will ship this month, with another 90,000 being shipped over the summer. This initial rollout is expected to be followed by larger-scale production if the demand proves to be strong. The success of this tablet could pave the way for similar initiatives in other developing countries, where access to affordable technology remains a significant barrier to education and economic development.
Moreover, the tablet’s affordability does not compromise its functionality. For instance, it can be used for basic internet browsing, accessing social media, and even streaming videos. This makes it a versatile device that can cater to various needs, from education to entertainment.
The launch of this ultra-cheap tablet marks a significant milestone in making technology accessible to all. With its affordable price point, government subsidies, and a range of useful features, it holds the promise of transforming education and digital access in India and potentially other parts of the world. The initial shipment of 10,000 units, followed by an additional 90,000 over the summer, indicates a strong commitment to this initiative. It will be interesting to see how this project evolves and what impact it will have on the broader landscape of affordable technology.
Source Crunch Gear
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