AT&T today announced that it will be the exclusive US mobile broadband provider for the Sony S2 tablet. The telecom company called the device a dual screen, multi-functional tablet ideal for mobile communication and entertainment, and noted that Sony plans to launch it later this year.

The S2 will be 4G capable (HSPA+) and Wi-Fi compatible. S2 will have access to AT&T's mobile broadband network and unlimited access to AT&T's more than 20,000 hot spots nationwide, with a monthly data plan. With both 4G and Wi-Fi, users can browse the Internet, access digital content including videos, games, and check e-mail, while on the go, nearly anytime (subways are still a problem!).

Distribution and pricing will be announced at launch. We still don't even know the name of the device (after all, S2 is just a codename).

"With its unprecedented, completely portable form factor, the 'Sony Tablet' S2 offers tablet enthusiasts a convenient and unique entertainment experience," David Haight, vice president of business development at AT&T, said in a statement. "Users will be treated to exceptional graphics and the touch-screen capabilities will enable a fast and efficient website experience."

"We're pleased to be working with AT&T on yet another unique mobile device," Mike Lucas, senior vice president of Networked Technology and Services Division at Sony Electronics, said in a statement. "AT&T provides the speed and coverage that are integral to the different features and functions of our tablet. We value our relationship as they share our commitment to growing the 'Sony Tablet' S2 and the tablet market overall."

Officially, Sony is planning a global release of its S1 and S2 tablets in the fall of this year. Sony revealed its tablet plans three months ago: two upcoming Android devices codenamed S1 and S2. The media-oriented S1 is a slate with a 9.4-inch touchscreen that is thick on one end and tapers towards the other in order to make it easier to hold for long periods of time. The S2 is meanwhile a folding clamshell device with dual 5.5-inch displays designed for mobile communications as well as entertainment.

The two devices will be marketed under the "Sony Tablet" brand and will play nicely with Sony's premium services, including the PlayStation Network for gaming and the Qriocity media suite. In terms of hardware, both are powered by a Tegra 2 processor, offer wireless connectivity through Wi-Fi, 3G or 4G, and include an IR port for AV controls with Sony's line of Bravia televisions as well as other devices supporting the Digital Living Network Alliance standards.