As expected, Motorola has announced two sequels to their first Android tablet, the Xoom. The Motorola Xoom 2 and Xoom 2 Media Edition both run Android 3.2, have a dual-core 1.2 GHz processor, 1 GB of RAM, 16 GB of local storage, 5 megapixel camera with LED flash on the back, 1.3 megapixel camera on the front, splashguard coating and Gorilla glass construction. MotoCast, a feature which was recently revived with the Droid Razr, will also be available on both tablets to provide remote access to home files. The Xoom 2 keeps the 10.1-inch display, and is a full third slimmer than the original Xoom at 8.8 mm. That’s almost as good as the Samsung Galaxy Tab’s 8.6 mm thickness. It also has a stylus accessory available, which may be nice for those not sold on the HTC Flyer. On the software side, the Xoom 2 lays on a few extra enterprise features, like VPN support, and wireless printing.
The Media Edition pares down the screen size to 8.2 inches, and boasts “adaptive virtual surround sound”, whatever that means. Apparently there’s a subwoofer in there, which is pretty cool. There’s also a remote control app preloaded on the Media Edition, but it’s unclear if that’s using something fancy like integrated IR as on the Sony Tablet S, or if it’s a considerably laggier Wi-Fi version that we usually see. Motorola’s being coy about the screen resolution on either tablet, but I’m sure we’ll find that out soon enough.
Comparing the specs to the original, these Xoom 2 models don’t make huge improvements in horsepower, but at very least they explore slimmer and smaller form factors. I’m interested in the addition of a stylus, and if it can really start to promote earnest, mobile digital artwork. The original Xoom didn’t sell particularly well, and in a world full of iPads, all competing tablets are fighting uphill. Maybe these few subtle changes will at least be enough to set them apart in the growing catalog of Android tablets.
Unfortunately for some of us, the initial launch will be in the UK and Ireland starting mid-November. Anyone taking bets on whether either one will be available over here in North America in time for the holidays? You can register for e-mail notifications for availability of the Xoom 2 here, and the Media Edition here.