TOKYO, Aug. 26 (Kyodo) — U.S. Internet search giant Google Inc. said Monday it will launch the latest version of its tablet computer, the Nexus 7, in Japan on Wednesday, featuring a lighter body and high-definition images to counter Apple Inc.’s popular iPad and other rivals.
Running on the Android 4.3 operating system, the device will be Google’s second model and follows the launch of the first version in September last year. The lightest, 16-gigabyte Wi-Fi model weighing 290 grams sells for 27,800 yen, while 32-gigabyte Wi-Fi model sells for 33,800 yen, Google said.
The 32-gigabyte LTE model will also be available from mid-September or later for 39,800 yen.
As the new mobile device is equipped with a display showing high quality images, it is suitable for watching videos, playing games and reading e-books that can be purchased through the Google Play shopping website, the company said.
The new Nexus 7 is already available in the United States and Canada.