Archos announced an Android 2.3 tablet with an iPad-like display: 9.7 inches, 1024 x 768 pixels, and IPS (in-plane switching). The Arnova 9 G2 is equipped with a single-core 1GHz processor, 8GB of storage, a front-facing videocam, plus micro-USB, USB, and microSD connections — but so far, no price tag.

Archos' mainstream Archos-brand Android tablets are so reasonably priced, we haven't had much cause to pay attention to the company's budget Arnova line of Android slates. In addition to the Arnova 7 and Arnova 10, the company has released a 3G version of the Arnova 7 called the Arnova 7 G2, and released an eight-inch Arnova 8G2, as well. Meanwhile, the original seven- and 10-inch tablets have also been upgraded to G2 versions.

Arnova 9 G2

Now comes the Arnova 9 G2 , which is notable for matching the iPad 2's display spec for spec. The 9.7-inch, 1024 x 768 pixel display features five-point multitouch support, a 4:3 aspect ratio, and the IPS technology noted for offering extra wide viewing angles. The display improves upon the 10.1-inch, 1024 x 600 display found on the Arnova 10 G2, which starts at about $200 with 4GB of storage.

For a budget tablet, the Arnova 9 G2 is also relatively thin and light, measuring 0.49 inches (12.5mm) thick and weighing only 22.2 ounces (630 grams). The Arnova 10 G2 bests it, however at 0.47 inches and 19 ounces.

Beyond that, the tablet appears somewhat less compelling, although at the right price, it could be a primo deal. Like the Arnova 10 G2, the tablet offers a 1GHz Cortex-A8 processor. That can't match the iPad 2, let alone any "Honeycomb" Android tablet, but the Arnova 9 G2 can play back 1080p quality video, according to Archos.

Arnova 9 G2 keyboard (left) and video playback
(Click on either to enlarge)

Archos did not list the RAM allotment, but says the tablet is equipped with 8GB of flash memory and offers a 32GB-ready microSD slot. In addition to providing 802.11b/g Wi-Fi, the tablet offers a front-facing camera of unknown quality, dual speakers, a microphone, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

The Arnova 9 G2 also supplies both a micro-USB port and a full-sized USB 2.0 host port. This is relatively rare on a budget tablet, but a fairly standard feature on Archos models. In addition to Android 2.3, the tablet offers Archos' AppsLib applications store instead of Android Market.

While the tablet appears to lack a rear-facing camera, GPS, HDMI, Bluetooth, and other extras, the IPS screen, thin profile, and USB port are all pluses that could make the Arnova 9 G2 a winner. We certainly plan to keep an eye on the pricing announcement.

Availability

No pricing or availability information was listed by Archos for the Arnova 9 G2 . More information may be found at the Arnova 9 G2 product page.

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