My iTouch recently died so I’ve been on the lookout for something similar. I’ve been drawn to Android products lately and came across the ARCHOS 43 tablet, which is essentially an Android version of the iTouch, offering essentials like a camera, HD video playback, apps, and Internet browsing. It has 16 GB memory (there is an 8 GB version as well) and a built-in leg stand which allows me to prop it up on my desk and stream the hockey game while I work.
It’s incredibly thin and light, weighing just 4.6oz, with a beautiful user interface that runs on Android 2.2 Froyo. Just like my old iTouch, I can download apps and access them quickly on the home screen. The built-in HD camcorder takes pretty good photos and videos, offering a max of 1280 x 720 pixels. The device includes a Photoframe app which allows you to create slideshows that you can share with friends and family on Youtube or Facebook.
The ARCHOS 43 has a HDMI output, so I was able to connect it to a TV and view my photos and videos on there. With the output you can also play games (and other apps) and then use the device as a steering-wheel for racing games, which is really cool. The device pretty good with games - I tested a few and was able to play them well thanks to its 3D graphics accelerator. It may not make the cut for hard core gamers who’d be better off with a dedicated gaming device like Sony Ericsson's Xperia Play, but for fun games like X Construction or Doodle Jump it does the job.
I haven’t yet found a tablet I’m sold on, as I prefer my Mac Air’s keyboard to all the virtual keyboards tablets are confined to. But you can’t really take a netbook to places like the gym, where I used to use my iTouch to watch videos on and listen to music. The ultraportable ARCHOS 43 tablet has been a great companion so far, fitting nicely in my pocket, and I’d recommend it as a great starter tablet since it retails for just $249.99 at Newegg, less than half of what the larger tablets cost. We’re giving one away so enter the contest! To see the tablet in action check out Mike Agerbo on Global BC's Noon News Hour today.
