J
Justin Herrick
Guest
Almost everything about the new HaierPad 971 makes it a great low-cost tablet. It has a 9.7-inch QXGA (2048×1536) IPS display, quad-core processor, and micro-HDMI port. So you’re getting a pretty good display, a reliable processor, and a port that allows for a unique multimedia setup. Throw in the big 7800mAh battery and Haier’s proposing quite a value. However, I said “almost everything” makes it great because the software is not what any consumer should be considering.
This tablet from Haier runs a version of Android that the company calls the “latest Android OS version” while being completely wrong. The HaierPad 971 is running Android 4.4 KitKat, a version of Android that launched in October 2013. Since then, Google released Android 5.0 Lollipop in 2014 and then Android 6.0 Marshmallow just a few months ago in 2015. KitKat is more than two years old, but Haier is telling consumers that its HaierPad 971 runs a current version of Android.
Is it a lie? Probably not. Someone was either misinformed or didn’t have the proper knowledge to realize that KitKat is not the “latest Android OS version.” No matter what really happened, Haier is selling a tablet with an outdated version of Android. So take this as another reminder to read before you buy, folks.
Click here for our CES 2016 coverage
Haier Unveils Ultra-Slim Android and Windows Tablets at CES 2016
Las Vegas, N.V., January 5, 2016 — Haier, a global leader in consumer electronics and appliances, will showcase a new range of Android and Windows tablets at CES 2016 (Central Hall Booth #12814). The ultra-slim HaierPads boast a variety of impressive features, including multi-core processors, QXGA (Quad Extended Graphics Array) resolution, powerful batteries and 8 MP high-resolution cameras with autofocus.
HaierPad W800
Haier unveils the W800, a mini Windows 8 tablet. Slim (8.6 mm) and lightweight (388 g), the W800 is equipped with a powerful INTEL Quad-core processor and Windows 8.1 OS. Its 8’’ IPS HD screen guarantees clear and detailed images while its black soft touch shell gives W800 a sleek and modern look. This Windows tablet comes pre-installed with one year free use of Microsoft Office 365, An optional keyboard is available, allowing for use as a mini laptop.
An impressive array of connectivity options includes Bluetooth 4.0, micro-HDMI and Wi-Fi, to get online and connect with other devices. The durable cover not only protects the tablet, but also acts as an easy-to-open stand for comfortable viewing.
Windows HaierPad W203
The new W203 HaierPad is perfect for on-the-go entertainment with its ultra-thin (9.4 mm) and ultra-light full aluminum body. Its brilliant 10.1” IPS HD screen has vibrant colors and provides wide viewing angles that make it perfect for movie-watching, while the Intel Gen 7 GPU HD graphics improve image clarity, whether indoors or outdoors.
Powered by an Intel® Z3735F quad-core processor, the W203 is compatible with various types of software and hardware. Thanks to an 8000 mAh battery, the tablet’s excellent performance is coupled with extended battery life. Through use of the W203’s microSD card slot, memory can be expanded up to 64 GB, with 2 GB RAM to load the tablet up with multimedia content such as movies and music.
A productivity-enhancing click-in keyboard can be used as a stand for a true PC-like experience or act as a protective case when on the go. An integrated stylus is also included, for efficient and precise use of the tablet in all situations. The W203’s multiple ports include a full-size USB 2.0 port, a Micro-HDMI port and a micro SD card reader.
HaierPad 971
Haier’s first 9.7’’ tablet has an ultra-slim body (7.6 mm) with a stylish gold color. It is powered by Android 4.4, the latest Android OS version. The QXGA(2048 x 1536) IPS screen (263 PPI) is made for an optimum video viewing experience, with any kind of content or definition smoothly supported by a 1.8 GHz quad-core processor.
Photo quality is equally impressive, with an integrated 8 MP autofocus rear camera. The 2 MP front camera ensures accurate and fluent images for reliable video chat in HD. Multimedia content can be displayed on other screens through the use of a micro-HDMI cable or shared immediately through dual-band Wi-Fi, with both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bandwidth supported, allowing users to benefit from premium signal quality for faster and more stable operation. Memory worries are virtually a thing of the past, thanks to 16 GB storage with 2 GB RAM, expandable up to 32 GB with the Micro-SD card slot. Bluetooth 4.0 enables connection to Bluetooth accessories such as headphones, headsets or speakers. The high-power 7800 mAh battery can last over 8 hours in use.
About Haier America
Haier America, headquartered in Wayne, N.J., is a subsidiary of Haier Group, the world’s #1 major appliances brand by volume as ranked by Euromonitor International 2014, and a global leader in consumer electronics. Haier employs more than 60,000 people around the world and distributes products in more than 100 countries and regions with global revenues reaching $32.6 billion in 2014. For more information, please visit www.haieramerica.com or connect at www.facebook.com/Haieramerica and Twitter @haieramerica.
Come comment on this article: Welcome to 2016: Haier’s HaierPad 971 shows up to the party with Android 4.4 KitKat
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