Cisco has shown off its first tablet, the Cius, which it says it is aimed at boosting business collaboration.
The device, based on the Android OS and Intel Atom chips, offers telepresence, HD video streaming, and multi-party conferencing. It is 3G and Wi-Fi capable, Cisco CEO John Chambers said in unveiling the new device at Las Vegas on Tuesday.
The new seven-inch device, which also allows user remote access to their desktop, is the latest move by the IP networking champion into business collaboration. In recent years Cisco has built out a portfolio of enterprise communication products, including VoIP, unified communications, Webex conferencing and its high-end telepresence service.
It is also pitching the Cius as a means for enterprises to migrate to the more cost-effective cloud, with network-based apps delivered over the Cisco network.
Customer trials will begin in the third quarter, and the device is expected to be available in early 2011.
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