Rumors about a Windows-based tablet from Nokia have been ongoing for months, and if recent leaks are any indication, the device could be just around the corner. Shortly after an alleged roadmap hinted at a September release, leaked images offered a first glimpse at a prototype sporting the Verizon, Windows RT, and Nokia logos. Now, sources speaking with The Verge are sharing some additional details on its design and internals.
The 10.1-inch device is said to closely resemble Nokia's Lumia Windows Phone products. It'll be thinner than the current iPad, lighter at just over a pound in weight, and will feature a colored body.
Hardware specifications include Qualcomm's high-end Snapdragon 800 processor alongside 2GB of RAM, 32GB of storage expandable through microSD, a 1920 x 1080 resolution display optimized for outdoor readability, 10 hours of battery life with LTE connectivity and both front and rear facing cameras sporting 2- and 6-megapixel sensors respectively. A couple of micro HDMI and micro USB ports round out the specs.
Codenamed "Sirius", Nokia's first tablet is designed to run Windows RT. That might be a risky bet considering Microsoft's own Surface RT had an underwhelming debut and led to a $900 million write-off earlier this year. But the Finnish firm seems determined in backing the platform, which features a similar user interface as the full fledged Windows 8, without the ability to run legacy desktop software.
As you might expect, Nokia is reportedly planning to ship a keyboard accessory with its tablet, which includes a battery for additional charging, and other optional accessories will be made available at launch.
Although there are no firm pricing and availability details, The Verge says Nokia plans to announce the device at a September 26 event in New York, and it will be priced comparatively with Apple's iPad.