Nov 1, 2010 21:11 GMT  ·  By

Today, ViewSonic went official with a couple of tablet PCs running under Google's Android operating system, the ViewPad 7 and the ViewPad 10. While the former is based on the Android 2.2 Froyo operating system, the latter comes with Android 1.6 on board, though it offers dual boot capabilities, pairing the platform with Microsoft's Windows 7 OS.

The new Android 2.2-based ViewPad 7 tablet PC is expected to arrive on shelves in late fourth quarter, while sporting a price tag of $479. According to the company, the slate should come with third-party accessories and ViewCare extended warranties.

The new Android 2.2 ViewPad 7 packs a powerful processor, while boasting 3.5G capabilities in a lightweight, pocket-sized 7″ form factor.

The new device sports a LCD screen that boasts a 800 x 480 pixels (WVGA) resolution, and was pre-loaded with Android Google Mobile Services (GMS), its maker announced.

“As a result, consumers can connect to a selection of more than 100,000 apps and games along with Gmail, YouTube and more for a superior and convenient entertainment solution that fits today’s mobile lifestyle,” the company notes.

The specifications list of the new device also includes Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g and Bluetooth connectivity options, as well as USB connectivity functions, along with instant messaging, VoIP, and web browsing.

The ViewPad 7 also comes with 2 built-in cameras, namely a 3-megapixel photo snapper on the back, with auto focus, and a 0.3 megapixel camera on the front for video calling.

Other specs of the new slate include 512MB of internal memory, complemented by a microSD memory card slot with support for up to 32GB of additional storage space.

The tablet PC packs a battery able to offer up to 10 hours of usage time, so that users can enjoy the multimedia features of the new device for extended time.

“The result is the ultimate device for connected fun and multitasking – in a compact size easier to carry than a netbook and with better media performance than a smartphone,” the company notes.