Cisco today unveiled an Android-based tablet capable of HD videoconferencing and targeted at on-the-go business professionals
The Cisco Cius (pronounced See Us) is a tablet device weighing just over a pound with a 7 inch SVGA (800 x 600 px) touch display. It’s powered by an Intel 1.6 GHz Atom CPU with 32 GB of flash, running Google’s Android OS. A "detachable and serviceable battery is rated at 8 hours to support "all-day communications under normal conditions".
The Cius has both a front-mounted HD camera (720p @ 30 FPS) and rear-facing 5 MP camera, for "VGA quality" video. Audio is provided via built-in dual noise-cancelling microphones and built-in "HD" speakers. Automatic portrait / landscape image switching is provided via a built-in accelerometer.
Connectivity is via 802.11 a/b/g/n Wi-Fi and 3G, with 4G services "available at a later date". Peripheral connection is supported via Bluetooth and Micro-USB port.
The Cius can be docked in an optional HD audio station, equipped with a telephone handset speakerphone, HD DisplayPort, Gigabit Ethernet and USB ports.
The tablet is supported by Cisco Unified Communications Manager and handles a wide array of Cisco collaboration applications including Cisco Quad, Show and Share, WebEx Connect, WebEx Meeting Center, Presence, and interoperability with Cisco TelePresence. Other software features include Cisco AnyConnect VPN Security, virtual desktop integration and web browsing via integrated Firefox browser.
Cisco says it intends to support Android application development by offering its APIs to developers through an SDK.
Customer trials of Cisco Cius will begin in 3Q10, with general availability in Q111. Pricing was not available.
