Cisco Systems Inc. (CSCO: 21.62, -0.8, -3.57%) unveiled plans for a business-centric tablet computing device running Google Inc.’s (GOOG: 454.26, -17.87, -3.78%) Android software, adding to the growing field of products vying to take on Apple Inc.’s (AAPL: 256.08, -12.22, -4.55%) iPad.
The device, called Cius (pronounced see-us), is the latest attempt by the San Jose networking giant to push video communications in the office and the home. A champion of a high-end video conferencing service called telepresence, the company envisions this as a mobile bridge that will encourage more video use.
“Our whole structure was built around collaboration combined with video,” said Cisco Chief Executive John Chambers during a company-sponsored event.
The device will offer access to Cisco communication applications such as video conferencing, as well as email and messaging. Features include front and rear cameras, a seven-inch high-resolution screen and connectivity via Wi-Fi or cellular networks.
Cisco plans to make the device available for customer trials in the third quarter and for general sale early next year. The price of the device wasn’t made available.
Full story: Cisco Unveils Plans for Tablet Device Targeted To Businesses