MWC 2013: Sony launches 10.1-inch Xperia Tablet Z

Sony today unveiled a 10.1-inch Android tablet, the Xperia Tablet Z, at the Mobile World Congress. At just 6.9mm in depth, Sony claims the Tablet Z is the thinnest in its category. The new device joins Sony's flagship smartphone, the Xperia Z.

Sony claims that the Xperia Tablet Z features the same OmniBalance design as the Xperia Z. Xperia Tablet Z will run Android 4.1 Jelly Bean and will be upgradable to Android 4.2 when it hits the market. The Tablet Z is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro asynchronous quad-core processor and is IP55 and IP57-certified water-proof (IP55 & IP57), which means it can be immersed in up to three feet of water for up to 30 minutes.

Runs Jelly Bean

The Xperia Tablet Z is powered by Mobile BRAVIA Engine 2, which the company claims delivers enhanced colour reproduction for a brilliant TV-like viewing experience. The 8 megapixel rear camera features an Exmor R for Mobile image sensor and the 2 megapixel front-facing camera is great for self-shots and video chatting. The tablet comes with Sony's S-Force Front Surround 3D, while Sony's Clear Audio+ mode and the two built-in speakers help the tablet deliver amazing sound no matter how it is held, Sony claims. The Xperia Tablet Z also offers a microSD card slot for up to 64GB of expandable storage.

Xperia Tablet Z is available in a Wi-Fi version in the US. It includes Sony's Near Field Communication (NFC) One-Touch functions, which allow users to transfer content among compatible devices, including audio, video and images. The Xperia Tablet Z weighs 495 grams.

The tablet's Universal IR Remote allows users to control their TVs and other Sony devices as well as products from other manufacturers directly with the tablet.

"The living room continues to be the number one location for tablet usage in the US. Consumers are using their tablet as a second-screen companion while watching TV, which is why we packed the Xperia Tablet Z with more connectivity options than any other tablet on the market," said Phil Lubell, vice president of networked technologies and services at Sony Electronics. "The Xperia Tablet Z makes it easier than ever to connect, share and discover content across all your devices in the home."

The Xperia Tablet Z will launch with a number of accessories, including a Cradle, an LCD Screen Protector and a Leather Carrying Cover that comes in black, white or red colours. These will be available from Sony stores and registered retailers.

The Xperia Tablet Z is available in black in 16GB and 32GB versions, and will be sold at Sony Stores, including online, and other authorised dealers for about $499 (around Rs 26,888) and $599 (around Rs 32,277), respectively. A white 32GB version will be available exclusively at Sony Stores, including online.