-Hey everyone, Eric Franklin here and today we're taking a first look at the Archos G9 80 and 101.
Now, these are the models with 8 gigabytes of flash memory, not the ones with 250 gigabyte hard drives.
Also, aside from the obvious size difference, there's really no physical difference between the 8-inch and the 10.1 inch.
I will say though that the 101 feels a little too big
and is actually longer than the Toshiba thrive which earn its size, but lots of full size ports and a removable battery.
The Archos, however, can't match those features.
The 8-inch 80 is still thicker than the Samsung galaxy 10.1 and the 101 is only a little bit thinner than the Thrive.
Instead of going with Tegra 2 processors, Archos outfitted the G9's with Texas Instruments OMAP 4 CPUs.
According to Archos,
the CPU provides faster web browsing over Tegra 2's, but so far in a go to test, we've not really seen it, but check back for a full review for more complete impression of performance.
The screens used MVA panels according to Archos and don't have the wide viewing angles and the bright screens of say a Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1.
Hardware feature mini HDMI, a headphone jack, a volume rocker, a power slash reset button, and this awesome little kickstand for watching video.
The G9 include only a single front facing camera and no back camera.
Unfortunately, unless the camera is taking in direct light, they have trouble taking in any light at all and will fade to black unless they are directly viewing a light source.
Each tablet includes a slot for a 50-dolllar 3G stick that when plugged in will give the tablets anywhere access on a per use basis or in a subscription model.
Archos plans to release upgraded versions of both G9s
with larger 250 gigabyte hard drive in next few months.
Check out the full review for more info.
Once again, I'm Eric Franklin and this has been a first look at the Archos G9 80 and 101.