Telstra unveils T-Touch Tab to mixed reviews

Start-ups should weigh up their options before purchasing Telstra’s new T-Touch Tab, according to an independent technology analyst.

Earlier today Telstra launched a handheld tablet computing device at a price of $299, undercutting the cheapest Apple iPad by more than half.

The seven inch tablet combines mobile internet, online content, entertainment and phone-calling as well as access to more than 80,000 apps from the Android Market.

Other features include:

• A touch screen that’s around three times larger than a standard smartphone screen.
• Connection with the world via the Telstra Next G network.
• A multimedia hub, allowing users to watch video clips or movies

Telstra’s Rebekah O’Flaherty says the device was created with families in mind, and will also prove popular with busy, tech-savvy people who are keen to stay connected with their interests.

“Telstra research suggests three quarters of Australia’s hobbyists are keen to use technology such as tablets to help further their passion,” she says.

Telsyte research director Foad Fadaghi says the T-Touch Tab is less than ideal for businesses, particularly start-ups.

“For a lot of start-up businesses, it’s about having a bit of ‘wow’ factor for when you present your business case to somebody, or you have meetings with prospective clients or partners,” he says.

“Today the tablet of choice is really the iPad when it comes to ‘wow’ factor… I don’t necessarily think the Telstra device will capture the same sort of attention.”

“Telstra have said that they will bring to market more high-end devices down the track so for businesses or start-ups, maybe some of those devices are worth waiting for.”