LeapFrog, a company known for children’s learning programs and books, announced that it will be releasing a tablet computer designed specifically for kids.
According to sources, the LeapPad tablet is an enormous step forward from some of LeapFrog’s previous ‘tablet’ instruments and interactive books that made it what it is today. Previous LeapPads were simple devices that had little more than pages, a stylus and speakers. This LeapPad, however, is much more akin to what we recognize today as a tablet computer.
The LeapPad tablet has a 5 inch touchscreen, with a 480 x 272 display resolution. The screen is bright and high quality, but significantly less defined than an iPad or a Smartphone.
There is a built in VGA camera that can capture photos or videos at 640 x 480 resolution, and a 2 GB internal hard drive for storage.
There is a cartridge for expansions, and also backwards compatibility with some previous LeapFrog software.
The entire device is designed to be durable and able to take a beating. The screen is slightly resistive, requiring a bit of exertion for it to register the stylus, and the case itself is thick enough to be tossed around and not take any damage.
The device comes pre-loaded with several kid friendly apps, such as an art studio where they can edit pictures they have taken or draw pictures from scratch. As well, there is a photo gallery feature where they can export their creations to their parent’s Facebook account.
Also of note is a virtual pet that kids can name and activate upon purchase of the tablet, which they can nurture and interact with.
The tablet will be connected to a fully functional app store, with over 100 games, e-books, programs and videos expected to be available upon release. Apps will be priced between $5 and $20.
The LeapPad tablet is currently available for pre-order and will be released on August 15th. It will likely be priced around $100 (USD).
For other tablet and smartphone news be sure to read HTC releasing a $35 Tablet Computer in India and Cut the Rope Android App Free for One Week.
