Pierre Cardin is shipping a seven-inch Android 2.2 tablet billed as “the … first designer tablet.” The Pierre Cardin Tablet PC offers a 1GHz Samsung “Hummingbird” processor, a front-facing webcam, Wi-Fi, and a tailored carrying case, and sells for 275 U.K. Pounds ($449).

The fashion world is gaga over Apple's Mac, iPhone, and iPad lines, so it's a brave design house indeed that dares to go Android. Then again, since Apple doesn't do branding deals and has yet to offer a smaller seven-inch model, what else is a designer to do?

Pierre Cardin Tablet PC

With its Android 2.2 build, 1GHz Samsung S5PV210 "Hummingbird" processor, and seven-inch capacitive display, the Pierre Cardin Tablet PC is reminiscent of the popular, original Samsung Galaxy Tab. Yet, instead of the Tab's 1024 x 600 resolution, Pierre Cardin gets by with 800 x 480 pixels (a questionable decision given the company's visually-oriented customer base?)

Pierre Cardin Tablet PC, sending mixed messages

The tablet is further equipped with 512MB RAM and 4GB internal storage, says the company. A microSD slot is available, but only holds 16GB.

There are few surprises in the remaining specs — you get 802.11b/g, but 3G is available only via an optional dongle. There is apparently no Bluetooth or GPS.

The Pierre Cardin Tablet PC features a front-facing, 1.3-megapixel webcam, but — another potential mistep for visual types — it lacks a rear-facing camera. The tablet provides a mini-USB host port for accessorizing with peripherals, as well as a mini-USB device port and HDMI port, says Pierre Cardin. A 4400mAh battery is also said to be available.

Weighing in at a hefty 18.3 ounces (520 grams), and measuring 0.55 inches (1.4cm) thick, the tablet is not going to win any runway competitions. To its credit, however, it ships with a stylish carrying case and "uber-cool black gift box," says the company. It also offers Android Market access, as well as Google apps including Google Maps and Gmail.

All in all, it seems like an odd mix for a "designer" tablet. On the one hand, it lacks the extravagant styling, advanced features, and high price of luxury Android devices like the $13,000-plus Ulysse Nardin Chairman smartphone. On the other, the price is not that low either, and the tablet is lacking many of the features of the Galaxy Tab, which is $100 cheaper.

Then again, people love designer labels. Pierre Cardin may well sell more units than you might think.

Availability

The Pierre Cardin Tablet PC is available for 275 Pounds ($449) in the U.K. More information and links to direct sales may be found at the Pierre Cardin Tablet PC site.

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