Nexus 9: Nine key highlights you should know about Google’s HTC-built tablet

As expected, Google has pulled the wraps off the new Nexus 9. This HTC-built tablet doesn’t come as a surprise as rumours about the device have been making rounds for sometime now. It promises tons of upgrades over the Nexus 7 that was launched last year right after I/O. Google and HTC have together built a sturdy device to take on the tablet market dominated by arch-rival Apple and Samsung. Let’s quickly take a look at some interesting features of the Nexus 9 tablet.

1. 8.9-inch display

Google’s latest Nexus tablet features an 8.9-inch IPS display with a 4:3 aspect ratio. The Nexus 9 features 2048 x 1536 pixels of resolution that places it at par with the Apple iPad Air. However, Google brings the said resolution on a smaller display.

2. First tablet running Android L

The Nexus 9 will be the first tablet to run Android 5.0 Lollipop, Google’s latest iteration of the Android OS. This will ensure that Nexus 9 users can get their hands on swift multitasking, new notifications that can be accessed direct from the lockscreen, better battery performance and more. Here’s all you need to know about Android 5.0 Lollipop.

3. 64-bit Nvidia Tegra processor

Google and HTC have powered the Nexus 9 with an Nvidia Tegra K1 processor. This 64-bit dual-core CPU should be able to handle all the multitasking, and heavy gaming and apps. The K1 offers Kepler GPU with 192 cores for smooth functioning of 3D graphics. It also includes 2GB RAM. 

4. 8MP rear and 1.6MP front cameras

Usually not much thought is put into cameras while designing a tablet, but HTC has managed to integrate its device with an 8MP rear snapper with f/2.4 aperture, LED flash and autofocus. It also gets a front-facing 1.6MP camera with f/2.4 aperture. One will also find dual microphones.

5. Optional keyboard

The Nexus 9 will be coming with an optional Keyboard Folio. The keyboard can be attached to the tablet via magnets and paired with the device using NFC. If you are worried about the accessory sucking out the battery, then you should know that the keyboard comes with its own battery.

6. One hand use

HTC and Google claim that the sleek and sturdy 8.9-inch tablet has been designed for one hand usage. It comes with a soft grip back and subtle curves along with high-quality construction. The device gets thin bezel and brushed metal sides.

7. Storage options

The Nexus 9 will be available in 16GB, 32GB and 32GB storage options. Users can pick from Lunar White, Indigo Black and Sand options.

8. Battery

The Nexus 9 gets a major boost with a 6,700 mAh battery that could work for up to days, which is way higher than the 3,670 mAh battery integrated in the Nexus 7. 

9. Pricing and availability

The Nexus 9 will be available for pre-order starting October 17. It is said to officially release on November 3 with a starting price of $399 for 16Gb Wi-Fi model, $489 for 32GB model and $569 for 32GB LTE version.