In the research note obtained by AppleInsider, Kuo notes the new Nexus 7 will feature upgraded specs, such as a high-resolution screen,
better cameras and wireless charging, but will maintain an entry-level price of
$199. Apple is also rumored to be launching an updated iPad mini sometime in the third quarter, but that timeline is in question as
recent reports have said production of the small form factor tablet hit a snag.
Google is likely to lose $5 to $10 per unit sold with the
aggressive pricing, suggesting profits will come from media purchases and ad
revenue. Kuo sees the distribution model being the same as 2012's version, with
Google selling the Nexus 7 through its website, while Asustek and other retail
outlets take care of higher-end iterations with more storage.
As for the specs of next Nexus 7, Kuo sees a switch to
Qualcomm's Snapdragon S4 Pro processor, a 7-inch LTPS panel carrying a
1,980-by-1,200 pixel resolution, a 5-megapixel rear facing camera and the
inclusion of Texas Instruments' Qi wireless charging.
On the design side, the upcoming tablet is believed to have
a narrow bezel reminiscent of the iPad mini.
Regarding the tablet's operating system, the analyst
believes Google will stick with Android 4.x Jelly Bean, offering tablet-centric
enhancements and new functions. Android 5.0 Key Lime Pie is not expected to be a focus.
Despite the update internals and unchanged price point, Kuo
only expects limited year-on-year shipment growth.
Finally, Kuo estimates that Google will launch an Android
Book laptop, Google "over-the-top" (OTT) TV box and a smartwatch to
compete with the likes of Apple, Microsoft and Amazon. These products aren't
expected to make it to Google I/O, as the company is said to be in planning
stages and is not yet close to manufacturing.
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