Another day, another manufacturer announcing a forthcoming Android tablet – or rather make that two. In what could be a huge boon for Google's mobile platform, both Asus and Lenovo confirmed plans to use Android in their upcoming tablet devices. Asus in particular had already begun work on a 12" Eee Pad equipped with a full install of Windows 7 Home Premium, and a 10" model running Windows Embedded Compact 7. Plans for the first seemingly remain unchanged, for now, but the latter has reportedly dropped Microsoft's OS in favor of whichever flavor of Android is available at launch.

The company hasn't shared much in the way of specs but unofficial sources claim the slim and light device will include a webcam, SD slot for expansion, HDMI-out via an optional docking cradle, and around 10 hours of battery life. The tablet will offer optional 3G for a persistent Internet connection, and NetbookNews.de claims the company is using 2.2 Froyo for their prototype, but since the Eee Pad won't be on the market until early 2011 it will likely ship with Android 3.0.


Providing even less details Lenovo also came forward with some news about their future mobile plans. Specifically, the company will release an Android-based tablet later this year dubbed LePad, which will pair nicely with their LePhone smartphone and presumably other products under the same nomenclature. Previously, the company had showed off the Skylight smartbook and the innovative IdeaPad U1 Hybrid but delayed both products to rethink its strategy.