Google and partner ASUS could launch two new Nexus tablet models by the end of the year. According to Digitimes, one could sell for US$199 (the same price as the 8GB model does now) and a second for as low as US$99. Both would be thinner than the current model and use TN (Twisted nematic) panels from HannStar Display.
It’s unclear how Google and ASUS would get to the US$99 price point. There are a few possibilities. For one, it could downgrade the specifications (less powerful processor, less memory, etc). The risk here is that it could end up with a too-cheap product with the reputation to match. It could also follow in Amazon’s footsteps and offer an ad-subsidized device. With users increasingly getting used to ad-sponsored aps, could an ad-sponsored homepage be next? Then again, it’s still just a rumour.
The report adds that the move may be in response to the expected launch of Apple’s iPad mini in October.
Read more: Digitimes