HP today announced the HP Slate7, an affordable Android Jelly Bean consumer tablet that offers easy access to Google Mobile services.

The Slate 7 comes with a dual-core, 1.6GHz Cortex-A9 ARM processor, 1GB of RAM, 8GB of storage space (expandable via microSD), and a 1024x600 High-aperture-ratio Field Fringe Switching (HFFS) panel display. Other specs include Bluetooth 2.1, a front-facing VGA camera, and a 3MP shooter on the back. The device runs a stock version of Android 4.1.

The Slate 7 also includes Beats Audio onboard, HP's ePrint functionality, a 3-megapixel camera on the back and a VGA camera.



With a 7-inch diagonal screen and weighing 13 ounces, the HP Slate7 is a portable personal companion, featuring a stainless-steel frame and soft black paint in gray or red on the back.

"To address the growing interest in tablets among consumers and businesses alike, HP will offer a range of form factors and leverage an array of operating systems," said Alberto Torres, senior vice president, Mobility Global Business Unit, HP. "Our new HP Slate7 on Android represents a compelling entry point for consumer tablets, while our ground-breaking, business-ready HP ElitePad on Windows 8 is ideal for enterprises and governments. Both deliver the service and support people expect from HP."

The HP Slate7 is expected to be available in the United States in April with a starting price of $169.