Sony launches $499 Xperia Z tablet with 10.1-inch screen, Android 4.1

At 6.99mm thick and a weight of 495 grams, this is the slimmest and lightest tablets launched so far. The Xperia Tablet Z sports a 10.1-inch screen with full-HD (1920 x 1200) display and is powered by Mobile BRAVIA Engine 2. It runs on Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean) and packs in a 1.5GHz quad-core Snapdragon S4 Pro processor along with 2GB of RAM. For the camera, there is 8-megapixel rear camera featuring Exmor R for mobile and a 2-megapixel HD front-facing camera.

The is a dust proof and water resistant tablet that comes with a 6,000mAh battery. For connectivity, the Xperia Tablet Z supports NFC and LTE. It will be available in black and white colour options.

Sony Xperia Tablet Z's 16GB variant will be available for $500, while the 32GB version will retail for $600. The Japanese company is planning to come out with number of accessories including a charging cradle, an LCD Screen Protector and Leather Carrying Cover that comes in Black, White or Red. These accessories will be available from Sony stores or registered retailers for an extra cost.

"Xperia Tablet Z sets new standards in entertainment by matching premium specifications and Sony technology with cross-device connectivity and a consistent user-experience," said Kaz Tajima, Corporate Vice President, Head of UX Creative Design and Planning, at Sony Mobile Communications. "Xperia Tablet Z reinforces our intention to be a leading player in the premium Android device market, by building on the principles established by Xperia Z and perfectly optimising them for the tablet form factor."

Sony has also announced that its flagship smartphone, Xperia Z will start shipping from March 1.

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Sony Xperia Z tablet specifications

• 10.1-inch full-HD display
• 1.5GHz quad-core Snapdragon S4 Pro
• 2GB RAM
• 32GB internal storage
• 8-megapixel rear camera
• NFC and LTE support
• 6,000mAH
• Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean)
• 495 grams