Report: Nintendo Developing Educational Android Tablet
Is Nintendo about to branch out with a brand new piece of hardware?
The Android market is awash with tablets. Whether it's higher end devices like Samsung's Note line, cheap and cheerful offerings based on Nvidia's Tegra, or kid-friendly slates like Polaroid's 'Kids Tablet,' there is literally something for everyone, and it seems that Nintendo is keen to throw its hat in the ring.
According to the latest rumors, the gaming giant is experimenting with an Android tablet for the educational market. VentureBeat points to tweets from Nintendo America software engineer Nando Monterazo that were gathered by Nintendo Everything before being deleted. The tweets refer to a Nintendo tablet with a modified Android operating system. Nando goes on to say that he's testing the communication environment of educational games that will be shared amongst children using the device. He also mentioned that the tablet's educational games will feature Nintendo characters, but that it won't run anything but educational games and is primarily aimed at schools.
When reached for comment, Nintendo told VentureBeat that it didn't comment on rumors. When VentureBeat phoned, Nintendo refused to confirm whether or not Nando worked for the company (he's not on LinkedIn either). Could we perhaps see a new device from Nintendo at E3 next year? Here's hoping!
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Jane McEntegart is a writer, editor, and marketing communications professional with 17 years of experience in the technology industry. She has written about a wide range of technology topics, including smartphones, tablets, and game consoles. Her articles have been published in Tom's Guide, Tom's Hardware, MobileSyrup, and Edge Up.
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iam2thecrowe This product will sink faster than an Indonesian boat headed for Australia. (thank Tony Abbot for that metaphor, the d1ckhead)Reply
i got a $65 tablet for my daughter and installed free educational games on it. I don't think anyone needs this Nintendo, try again. -
edwd2 well kids nowadays. they'll root it, delete the educational apps, and install tons of games on itReply -
kinggraves Nintendo is over 100 years old and has numerous business ventures that are not related to the console industry. Sensationalist journalists just want to spin it into "Nintendo making tablet, finally gives up on console industry." Keep running on weak rumors tossed out by people not even confirmed as employees.Reply -
knowom It's too bad Nintendo wouldn't start making PC games. Let's face all Nintendo is good at these days is software there hardware is a joke.Reply