The LG G Pad 8.3 Google Play Edition is now officially the first GPE tablet. It’ll be available starting today on Google Play for $349. We became aware of the G Pad 8.3 as a GPE device this morning thanks to LG’s open source page, so the only surprise here is the timing of the announcement along with other new devices (white Nexus 7 and Z Ultra GPE).
As a reminder, the G Pad 8.3 is a lot like a blown up version of the LG G2, though it has a slightly older and less powerful Snapdragon 600 processor. But you are still looking at a 8.3-inch full HD display (1920×1200, 273ppi) with minimal bezel, on-screen buttons, 16GB internal storage, microSD slot, 2GB RAM, 5MP rear camera, 4600mAh battery, and a body that is only 8.3mm thick.
The G Pad 8.3 GPE also runs stock Android 4.4 (Kit Kat) and will receive timely updates just like other GPE units.
LG ANNOUNCES FIRST-EVER GOOGLE PLAY EDITION TABLET
LG G Pad 8.3 First Android Open Source Project Tablet Running Android 4.4 KitKat
SEOUL, Dec. 11, 2013 — The LG G Pad 8.3 from LG Electronics (LG) will be the first device ever to be designated a Google Play Edition tablet. Google’s first Android Open Source Project (AOSP) tablet will feature the latest Android operating system, Android™ 4.4, KitKat. The LG G Pad 8.3 Google Play Edition reference device will be available for purchase starting today in the United States on Google Play™.
With the perfect combination of KitKat’s Full-screen Immersive mode and LG’s stunning 1920 x 1200 WUXGA Full HD IPS display, this special edition of LG G Pad 8.3 offers an optimal viewing experience. Apps can utilize every pixel on the G Pad 8.3 screen to create full-bleed UIs reaching edge to edge. With the ability to hide the system UI such as the status bar and navigation bar, this feature is ideal for rich visual content such as photos, videos, maps, books and games.
“LG’s working relationship with Google has always been strong and our collaboration on the first-ever Google Play Edition tablet is proof of that commitment,” said Dr. Jong-seok Park, President and CEO of the LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “The LG G Pad 8.3 Google Play Edition is a device with hardware and software that has been optimized for a truly consumer-friendly experience. There’s nothing else like it out there in the marketplace.”
The LG G Pad 8.3 was designed based on insights from consumers resulting in a compact, modern-looking device accentuating sleek lines and subtle curves for comfortable holding with one hand. The powerful 1.7GHz Quad-Core Qualcomm Snapdragon™ 600 CPU and 4,600mAh battery provide both performance and long-life between charges.
The LG G Pad 8.3 Google Play Edition will be available in glossy Indigo Black for USD 349.99. Availability in other countries has not yet been determined at this time.
Key Specifications:
• Processor: 1.7GHz Quad-Core Qualcomm Snapdragon™ 600 Processor
• Operating System: Android™ 4.4, KitKat
• Display: 8.3-inch Full HD IPS WUXGA (1920 x 1200 pixels / 273 ppi)
• Memory: 16GB eMMC
• RAM: 2GB LPDDR2
• Camera: Rear 5.0MP / Front 1.3MP
• Battery: 4,600mAh
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi
• Size: 216.8 x 126.5 x 8.3mm
• Weight: 338g
• Colors: Indigo Black
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About LG Electronics, Inc.
LG Electronics, Inc. (KSE: 066570.KS) is a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, mobile communications and home appliances, employing 87,000 people working in 113 locations around the world. With 2012 global sales of USD 45.22 billion (KRW 50.96 trillion), LG comprises five business units — Home Entertainment, Mobile Communications, Home Appliance, Air Conditioning & Energy Solution and Vehicle Components — and is one of the world’s leading producers of flat panel TVs, mobile devices, air conditioners, washing machines and refrigerators. LG Electronics is a 2013 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year. For more news and information on LG Electronics, please visit www.LGnewsroom.com.
This post was last modified on December 10, 2013 11:36 am