Verizon Wireless wants to enter the tablet for kids category by announcing their Android-powered GizmoTab. The company also promises unlimited access to at least 300 premium apps for learning. The tablet costs $249.99 without a contract, while grabbing a 2-year contract lowers the price to $79.99
According to PhoneArena, the GizmoTab uses an 8-inch IPS TFT display with a 1920 x 1200 resolution. The screen's pixel density is rated at 282ppi. An 8-megapixel shooter handles the main imaging requirements, while its selfie camera registers a 5-megapixel sensor. Both cameras do not have built-in flash.
An Octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 617 CPU with a 3GB RAM handles the GizmoTab's computing needs. The slate runs on Google's Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow and has a 16GB internal memory and a microSD expansion slot. The device supports microSD cards up to 128GB. It packs 5100mAh battery promising users up to 14.5 hours of usage time. Verizon claims the tablet lasts 14 days on standby.
Since its marketed mainly as a tablet for children, The GizmoTab is protected by a removable bumper case. Optional carrying cases with handles that convert into stands are also available on the Verizon Wireless shop. It manages a weight of 11.99 and measures 8.26 high and 5.04 wide.
The user interface of the GizmoTab might surprise some users who are used to the home screen icons and app drawer. Instead, the tablet features a game-like interface where children navigate to different themed islands. The software also allows parents to assign an hourly limit or reward more hours as long as their kids play with learning apps. This apparently controls the children's time spent playing on the tablet. Additionally, CNet mentions that Verizon has "partnered with Fingerprint to curate its kids apps."
The software is also designed to keep children away from inappropriate content. Parents can unlock the GizmoTab's child-safe mode if they want to access the regular android interface.