There’s a tech revolution in India. For less than $100, it is possible to buy some very decent devices, including a popular $40 tablet called the Aakash 2. Yesterday, that powerful and inexpensive tablet arrived in the United States. While the Aakash 2 isn’t widely known in North America, shoppers looking for a tablet would be unwise to ignore what Indian developers have to offer. Not only is the Aakash 2 affordable, it’s also a tablet that will, eventually, give higher priced tablets some very steep competition.

Inside the Aakash 2 Tablet

This 7-inch tablet has a 1GHz processor, 4GB of flash memory, and 512 MB of RAM. It also runs any app found in the Google Play store. You’ll also find a multi-touch screen, front-facing camera, and nicely designed speakers and microphone (internal). When compared to the iPad, it’s easy to see that the Aakash 2 is the same width and roughly the same size all around (minus the iPad’s plastic border). In short, it's definitely comparable to the iPad size-wise. The developers behind the Aakash 2 (DataWind) have something else in mind too.

This Tablet Fights Illiteracy

Originally, the Aakash tablet was designed for children. The government of India has made a vow to provide all Indian children with a tablet. The point of this program is to help kids who are facing illiteracy problems due to economic strife. This tablet will allow children to access books of all kinds. In addition, the Government of India is subsidizing half the tablet price for kids who live in India. The tablet was so popular in India that DataWind decided to create a North American version.

The Aakash 2 tablet is fast, powerful, and comes with a responsive touchscreen. It’s also hard to ignore that $40 price tag. Needless to say, this tablet is ideal for children who are not connected to the digital age, should be reading more books, and are seeking a tablet. You won’t be able to purchase the Aakash 2 prior to the holiday season, though. Unfortunately, this tablet will not be available until 2013. You can take a look at some additional tablet specs on the DataWind website, however.

Where to Purchase This Tablet

When the Aakash 2 tablet does arrive on the North American scene, consumers will be able to purchase this tablet through some major retailers. In addition, it will be possible to find out more about the tablet when DataWind makes its official announcement later in 2013. When tested, the Aakash tablet proved to be efficient and easy to use, making it an ideal tablet for kids of all ages.

It’s relatively easy to be drawn into the marketing hype of larger companies like Apple, but there are a lot of great (and less expensive) tablets on the market now. If you don’t’ want to spend more than $100 for a tablet for your child, the Aakash 2 makes a good deal of sense. Stay tuned to this blog for additional details about the Aakash 2 when the tablet officially arrives on North American shelves.