Last month there were rumours about an Android based Zeus and Zeen printer come tablet combo and now we can confirm that this is HP’s Photosmart eStation C510 printer thanks to HP product documentation supplied to tech site Engadget.
There are basically two gadgets here, there’s the Zeen which is a tablet computer and then there’s the Zeus which is a multi function wireless ink jet printer, but put them together and you get, well you get convenience basically as you don’t need a separate pc.
A printer with a detachable tablet computer is an intriguing idea but whether this combo gadget is worth splashing your cash on is another matter, so for what it’s worth, here’s the basic gist of what you’re likely to get according to reports.
The detachable Zeen tablet slate, which turns into a type of control panel for the printer, is a 7 inch tablet that will run on Android 2.1 so no Froyo yet although some are suggesting this could change and may be updated to 2.2 before the launch.
The Zeen has a capacitive touch screen, an SD slot, supports video, and some models may also have a webcam.
On the down side there’s a custom UI and the new TouchSmart skin appears to be locked in, so although the Android web browser is accessible, there’s apparently no support for Android apps or gmail at the moment but again that might change.
It does, however, have “significant” integration with Barnes and Noble Nook bookstore according to the info Engadget got their hands on so eBooks are a major focus on this tablet.
The printer teamed up with the tablet means that it can only scan and copy and print, it also offers web connected printing and if you want you could print out all those eBooks you’ve been planning to read.
There’s also some preloaded apps bundled on to the tablet including those for social networking, Yahoo and Snapfish so you’ll be able to conveniently print off your pictures directly from Facebook.
There were earlier reports that the tablet will also be available as a standalone gadget but that isn’t clear at the moment as Engadget got word that the SKU for it had been cancelled.
The Zeen and Zeus combo eStation will supposedly be available from September 20th and will cost around $399.
