Since Microsoft has its latest operating system out, it is rare for a tablet or laptop to be released without support for it, but that is precisely what Archos has done with the 13.3-inch FamilyPad. Indeed, as strange as it sounds, the only operating system from Microsoft that actually meets all tablet necessities is not mentioned anywhere on the product page.
Instead, the 13.3-inch Arnova FamilyPad can
run communicate with devices running Microsoft Windows 7/Vista/XP, Mac OS. X, Linux and Android.
Archos does say “or higher,” so Windows 8 should work. As for the software that is actually installed on it, Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich is available (no word on Jelly Bean update).
Hardware-wise, FamilyPad utilizes a 1 GHz ARM Cortex A8 processor, an LCD with a native resolution of 1,280 x 800 pixels (16:10 aspect ratio) and 1 GB of RAM (random access memory).
There is mention of 8 GB of storage space too, which is probably why the tablet only costs £274.99 ($437 / 342 Euro).
That said, Archos' device also has a mini HDMI display output, for when even the 13.3-inch panel is not large enough.
A Universal Serial Bus port (USB) is available too, though it is not the best. Since it is only a USB 2.0 connector, it cannot reach too high a transfer speed (580 Mbps max).
Moving on, the slate features the obligatory wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi), plus a microSD card slot in case 8 GB just aren't enough.
Other specs include a pair of webcams (2 megapixels front and back), integrated stereo speakers, a G-Sensor, and a microphone. A stand is included in the purchase, allowing customers to set the slate upright on a desk or some such. It helps when watching a film for instance, since one doesn't need to hold it up all the time.
Update November 22, 2012: Fixed the OS confusion. The tablet Runs Android 4.0 and nothing else, but can communicate with PCs / electronics running one of the other ones mentioned.
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