Google to Unleash Second-Generation Nexus 7 Media Tablet in July

From X-bit Labs: Google reportedly plans to introduce a new version of its popular Nexus 7 media tablet in July. The new slate will be manufactured by Asustek Computer, but will feature Snapdragon application processor from Qualcomm. The Internet search giant has set aggressive sales target for the second generation of Nexus 7.

In a bid to better compete against the current and the next-generation of inexpensive media tablets, Google plans to introduce an all-new Nexus 7 slate sometimes in July, according to Reuters news-agency that cites two sources familiar with the matter. The new media tablet will be based on Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 or 800 system-on-chip, will feature higher-resolution display and thinner bezel design. Asustek Computer will continue to co-brand the device.

It is reported that Asus and Google decided to choose Qualcomm Snapdragon chip instead of Nvidia’s Tegra 4 because the latter’s power consumption is higher. Moreover, judging by previous comments made by Nvidia Corp.’s chief executive, the company will barely be able to supply Tegra 4 in mass quantities by July.

Google, which has never disclosed tablet sales, plans to ship six to eight million of the new Nexus 7s in the second half of this year, according to market sours. In the second half of 2012 the company shipped around 4.6 million Nexus 7 tablets, according to Benedict Evans, an analyst with Enders Analysis.

Google will likely keep the starting pricing of the second-gen Nexus 7 at $199 level. What is unclear is the destiny of the first-gen Nexus 7, which is not a bad device that could still be sold at $149 or lower price-point.

The developer of the most popular mobile operating system in the world believes that its own-brand gadgets help it to take away market share from Apple and also show other makers what devices to manufacture.

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