HTC is reportedly working on the next iteration of Google's Nexus line of tablets, the 8.9-inch Nexus Volantis, considered as a premium tablet with aluminium-built set to debut later this year.
With reports of Google pausing its Nexus line of tablets, the latest information from company sources reveal that HTC is building the rumored 8.9-inch Nexus 9 tablet, codenamed HTC Volantis. Sources have confirmed the news about the new Nexus tablet to Android Police, which said, "We feel confident in our information."
The blog is relying on the information that it received from multiple sources dating back to the first quarter of this year. But, the latest information comes with more authenticity as it is backed by a source image giving detailed specs of the upcoming tablet. According to the blog, the tablet is referred to as Nexus 9; but it might carry a different name on being launched, which is expected during the fourth quarter of this year alongside Android L, Google's next version of Android OS after KitKat. "With rumors that the Nexus 6 was canceled in light of the Android Silver program, it's important to be cautious when approaching any information regarding future Nexus devices," Android Police's Liam Spradlin writes. "That said, a source familiar with Volantis tells us that the hardware already exists, and that the tablet is already being toted around by some at Google. Additionally, the first devices pegged for the Android Silver program aren't expected until 2015, so it would make sense that Google is prepping a Nexus to launch Android L." As for the leaked specs, the rumored 8.9-inch tablet will feature a 2,048x1,440 display complete with 281ppi - which is more than Apple's iPad with Retina density of 264 pixels-per-inch. The tablet will also be the first to carry a premium look and feel in the Nexus lineup, with its strong aluminium built. Weighing 418g (or 427g with LTE), the Nexus 9 is thicker and heavier than Samsung's latest 8.4-inch Galaxy Tab S - which is 0.26" thick and 298g in weight. But, the extra weight is justified by its aluminium construction. The upcoming tablet will also be the first to be powered by a 64-bit version of Nvidia's Tegra K1 processor. Other specs include a 2GB RAM, 8-megapixel rear camera with Optical Image Stabilization and 3-megapixel front facing camera and comes with optional 16GB and 32GB internal storage. Looks like HTC is integrating its popular front-facing boomsound speakers in the Nexus 9. For these specs, HTC Nexus 9 will likely hit a price range of around $399 for the 16GB model and $499 for the 32GB version. Also, the LTE supported slate will go as high as $600, the report adds.
