Flagship Google tablet reportedly scheduled for Q2 2011 release

When the Nexus One first launched, it was Google’s leading smartphone for representing the then newly released Android 2.1 (Eclair). It has since been updated regularly and presently runs the latest version of Gingerbread.

Now, current rumors point to a possible flagship tablet in order to represent Android Honeycomb in a similar way the Nexus One was the flagship Android smartphone. According to Russian site Mobile-Review, Google could be in talks with LG to build a “Nexus tablet” that might come out as soon as this fall. While no specific details were given, PCWorld expects the tablet to come preloaded with Android 3.x and possible 3G/4G connectivity options, and be sold directly to customers or subsidized with a wireless carrier if released.

The source also mentions another rumor, this time dealing with current Android 2.x tablets. Due to licensing agreements between Google and other tablet manufacturers, Android 2.x tablets may not officially be allowed to upgrade to Honeycomb, according to PCWorld. If true, this would mean that upcoming tablets such as the HTC Flyer could be stuck running Gingerbread even though Sprint has claimed a Honeycomb upgrade would be possible soon after release. So far, the Motorola Xoom is one of the few available tablets that come preloaded with Honeycomb.

Currently, LG is preparing to release its G-Slate tablet in the United States within the coming months. The HTC Flyer is also scheduled for release under Sprint sometime this summer.

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