Google has just wrapped up the announcement of a refreshed version of the Nexus 7, their 7-inch, budget-minded Android tablet. For $229 (for a 16GB model), the slate delivers a pretty tempting spec list that includes a quad-core processor, 5MP rear camera, and 1920×1200 resolution display in a slim, portable package. But let’s rewind to that 7-inch, 1920×1200 display.
In contrast, the current generation iPad Mini, which starts at $329 for 16GB, sports a 1024×768 resolution display measuring in at just a hair under 8 inches. The math equates to 163 pixels per inch. For the new Nexus 7? 323 pixels per inch, which falls well within Steve Jobs’ definition of a “retina display.”
Apple never claimed the iPad Mini was a “budget” device, but it’s hard to ignore the differential in pricing versus specs, even if we only focus on the display. This is at a point where rumors claim Apple hasn’t quite settled on whether or not to include a Retina Display in their next-gen iPad Mini, or when such an update would launch.
While Apple will always demand a premium for build quality and design — something the ASUS-built Nexus 7 to this point hasn’t touched — display resolution is a key marketing factor for smartphones and tablets. It’s feasible to believe some cost conscious consumers would run with the cheaper slate that offers seemingly better specs. My point is, if Apple is still waffling on the inclusion of a Retina Display in the next iPad Mini, Google and their Nexus 7 pretty much just made the decision for them.
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TAGS: Nexus 7
