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Amazon already followed Apple with an “Appstore.” Now the e-commerce giant is ready to follow with its own tablet.
The world’s largest online retailer is reportedly producing more than a million Android-powered tablet computers to sell in the fall — roughly the same time Apple is expected to roll out its third-generation iPad.
There have been plenty of tablet contenders, ranging from RIM’s PlayBook to Samsung’s Galaxy, but none so far has seriously challenged Apple’s iPad dominance.
Amazon, though, with its built-in Kindle e-reader base and ability to deliver digital media from books to music, is seen as a formidable foe. Amazon’s long-rumored entrant in the tablet race will have a 9-inch screen and debut before October, WSJ.com reported.
The online giant already has its own Appstore — which prompted Apple to sue Amazon for allegedly stealing its trademarked App Store. The tech titans also are going head-to-head in cloud locker services for music. And Amazon offers Netflix-like streaming movies for its so-called Prime customers.
The in-house tablet seems a natural fit for Amazon, which has repeatedly shown a willingness to expand its reach, according to Roger Kay, president of Endpoint Technology Associates.
“It’s an Amazon-branded device for those who want a full-fledged Android tablet instead of a Kindle,” said Ezra Gottheil, a senior analyst with Technology Business Research.
The move doesn’t mean the online retailer won’t remain committed to the Kindle and planned updates to that product line. Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos has said there is room in the market for both gadgets. Analysts added that offering a full-fledged tablet is partially a defensive move to protect the Kindle e-reader franchise.
Going the Android route could open Amazon up to lawsuits from the likes of Microsoft, which has gone after licensing fees from companies who use the Google software, Gottheil said.
The software giant is already in a legal spat with Amazon’s other rival, Barnes & Noble, over the Nook e-reader, which uses Android. gsloane@nypost.com