The Android-powered Wikipad gaming tablet is set for release on June 11, 2013, Wikipad, Inc. confirms today. The $250 mobile device breaks into two key components: a 7-inch Android tablet and a specially designed docking mount that adds twin-thumbstick gamepad controls with all of the functionality of a modern-day console controller. Fully assembled, the Wikipad bears no small resemblance to the Wii U’s GamePad.
When the gamepad controller is detached, Wikipad’s sleek design and full Android 4.1 Jelly Bean functionality make it a powerfully versatile tablet for surfing the Web and enjoying films, books, magazines, emails, and music, conversing via Skype, or experiencing the latest apps at home or on the go.
The tablet offers 16GB of built-in storage space while a microSD slot allows for an additional 32GB to be added. A Micro USB port, HDMI out, GPS, 2-megapixel front-facing camera, and accelerometer/gyroscope motion sensors offer added functionality. It’s all powered by Nvidia’s Tegra 3 quad-core processor, with integrated support for TegraZone, PlayStation Mobile, and Google Play. Along with the game support, the Wikipad is also a full-fledged Android tablet with access to the entire Google Play Store library.
Pre-ordering isn’t an option at this time, but Wikipad, Inc. confirms that the tablet will be available first from Wal-Mart, Best Buy, and TigerDirect.