Viewsonic is blaming unsatisfactory Google support for larger-screen devices like their 10.1 inch GTablet. It was discovered that Flash Player 10.1 plugin had not passed Adobe’s certification process. Many concerns have been reported of poor ‘user experience’. Numerous issues surround getting its custom UI working perfectly with NVIDIA’s Tegra 2 chipset. This weekend Staples stopped selling the Android 2.2 Froyo GTablet, because they state it has a “manufacturing defect.” Viewsonic attests that simple software updates will solve the issues.
A new software version is promised by the end of this week, including an updated version of the Tap ‘n’ Tap UI that has resulted in so many problems. Users will then be able to turn off this custom UI and use the original Froyo interface, which has been much desired.
By the end of January 2011 a certified Adobe Flash plugin is expected and it will be available for download. This will also fix the problem with Advent’s Vega tablet running NVIDIA’s Tegra 2 chipset. Viewsonic Marketing VP Adam Hanin told engadget they have had to put together their own app store due to Google’s inadequate support.
Via: Slash Gear
PRESS RELEASE:
ViewSonic Confirms High Performance of GTablet
Software Upgrade Release to Improve User Experience
WALNUT, Calif. – December 20, 2010 – ViewSonic Corp., a leading global provider of computing, consumer electronics and communications solutions, today responded to recent retailer actions surrounding its GTablet 10.1″ Android 2.2 Tablet. The GTablet, based on the nVidia Tegra II chipset, is one of the fastest Android tablets on the market today, consistently leading industry benchmarks.
“We always listen to customers; while they love the hardware, they raised several issues about the user interface,” Jeff Volpe, VP and GM for ViewSonic Americas. “As a result, our software partner is releasing an upgrade that will address customer concerns. Along with great performance improvements, customers will have the flexibility to use both a standard Android interface as well as a user-customizable interface which has been significantly enhanced since the product launch.” Volpe went on to say, “ViewSonic is committed to its tablet endeavors and will continue with new announcements at CES in January.”
Current GTablet owners will automatically receive the upgrade through their WiFi connection by Friday, December 24. Users simply need to accept the request to install the upgrade. In addition, Adobe® Flash certification is targeted for the end of January, 2011. In the interim, users can download Flash from various websites that distribute android applications.
For the latest on GTablet software updates, please visit ViewSonic.com/gtablet beginning Wednesday, December 22. For general questions, please contact GTablet support at (866) 501-6405.