Computex: Dell Venue 7 and 8 get updated Intel Merrifield internals, Android KitKat

One of the biggest advantages of Android devices with the latest Intel chipsets is that they can all run and indeed do run Android 4.4 KitKat, the latest version of the platform. This is one of the key merits of Intel’s platform, as the company spent time and effort developing a version of Android KitKat that’s well-optimised for its Moorefield and Merrifield chips.   Dell is yet another manufacturer making good use of these CPUs and has refreshed its Venue 7 and 8 tablets. The Dell Venue 7 has been priced at $159.99 which is around Rs 9,500, while the Venue 8 comes at $199.99 which is about Rs 12,000. There’s no word on when these updated tablets will come to India.   Dell has gone with the latest Intel Atom Z3460 Merrifield dual-core 1.6GHz CPU for the Venue 7 and the faster Atom Z3480 Merrifield dual-core CPU clocked at 2.1GHz for the Venue 8. Both tablets have 1GB of RAM and have Intel HD Graphics (Imagination PowerVR G6400 ) for HD gaming.   The Venue 7 sports a 7-inch display with HD (1280X800) resolution, which seems passable, while the 8-inch Venue 8 ups the ante with a full HD display in 16:10 aspect ratio (1920x1200 pixel resolution). Both run Android 4.4 KitKat.   Both tablets have 16GB of internal storage with microSD card slots that take in up to 64 GB. In terms of connectivity too, they are identical with support for ‘ac’ Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, LTE radios, Miracast for wireless display mirroring. The smaller tablet gets a 5MP camera on the back, and a 1MP front shooter, while the Venue 8 gets the same primary camera with a 2MP front camera.   Both tablets have a 4550mAh battery, but Dell has not revealed the rated life. Both the devices are equipped with PocketCloud and 20GB of free Dropbox storage for one year. The Dell Venue also comes with a hardware warranty with the option to upgrade to Dells Accidental Damage service.   Dell has also announced optional accessories. The Dell Venue Cradle is for the Venue 8, which supports wireless charging. Then there’s a dual-layer Dell Duo Tablet Case as well as the Venue Rotating Folio which also acts as a kickstand and cover.  The Dell Bluetooth Keyboard Folio provides a wireless Android keyboard for typing, while there’s a Bluetooth and NFC compatible portable speaker as well. It’s said to offer up to 10 hours of continuous play, has a wireless range of up to 30 feet, and features built-in microphone for hands-free calls.