This week, Amazon unveiled a new range of Alexa tablets. They no longer use a proprietary operating system with a custom App Store and instead embrace Android with a stock look and feel while offering the Play Store. It’s a big change in direction for Amazon. The tablets also look pretty good, whereas previous Fire tablets looked cheap. I think these have the opportunity to do quite well.
First, I want to be clear that I’m not saying the iPad is doomed or anything remotely close to that. However, I think the Alexa tablet serves as a real form of competition with the iPad, something the iPad has generally lacked.
The new Alexa tablets pose stiff competition
Amazon is paying a lot of attention to these tablets compared to other Android manufacturers, and while these tablets have lower prices, they certainly punch above their weight class.
There are three Alexa tablets to start the lineup: an 8.7″ model for $229, an 11″ model for $329, and a 12″ Pro model for $499. For me, the one in the middle is the most interesting.
It offers 8GB of RAM, a 90Hz display, a slim design, and an equally sharp display. This compares to the budget iPad, which costs $120 more with less RAM, a smaller display, and a thicker design. Sure, the iPad has the A16 chip, which probably feels a lot faster than the MediaTek chip that powers it. The iPad also starts at 128GB, compared to the Alexa tablet’s 64GB. Once you upgrade your Alexa tablet to 128GB, there’s only a $70 difference.
Hardware-wise, the Alexa tablets seem pretty competent. Obviously, Android on tablets won’t be entirely perfect, but given its tie to Alexa and the fact that the tablet is priced pretty well, I could see a lot of people wanting to buy them, even if they potentially would have considered iPads. Of course, one of Amazon’s strengths is the Kindle experience, and these Alexa tablets offer a reading mode that cuts out blue light.
Wrap
Only time will tell, but Amazon could make a major dent in the tablet market with its new arrivals. The 12″ Pro at $499 also seems like a really worthwhile product. At the very least, I hope that strong competition means Apple will be less complacent with its iPad upgrades. For example, the iPad Air has largely only received chip upgrades since its last redesign in 2020.
Personally I’m excited to try one out and really put it to the test. Amazon is also currently offering a 20% discount on any trade-in, making it an even better deal.
What do you think of these new Alexa Tablets? Would you consider purchasing one for a friend or family member this holiday season? Sound off in the comments.
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