Sony unveils dual-screen tablet

Sony has announced the "Sony Tablet" which the firm will ship in two form factors.

The S1 (codename) is optimised for rich media entertainment while the S2 (also a codename) focuses on mobile communication and entertainment.

Both forms will ship with Android 3.0 and feature wi-fi and WAN (3G/4G) compatibility.

The S1 has a 9.4-inch display for consuming web content on a large screen while the S2 has two 5.5-inch displays and can be folded for easy portability.

"Sony Tablet delivers an entertainment experience where users can enjoy cloud-based services on-the-go at any time. We're aiming to create a new lifestyle by integrating consumer hardware, including 'Sony Tablet' with content and network," said Kunimasa Suzuki, Corporate Executive, SVP, and Deputy President of Consumer Products & Services Group.

Google’s Andy Rubin added, "Android 3.0 is a new version of the Android platform with a new holographic user interface that is designed from the ground up for devices with larger screen sizes, particularly tablets. I'm excited about Sony Tablet as it will further spur the development of applications and network offerings which users are looking for."

Both versions are due to launch "in the global market” before the end of 2011.