HP Zeen Android tablet paired with web-connected Zeus printer

The HP Zeen Android tablet will come the HP Zeus printer, which can connect to the tablet without any need for a computer.

Image courtesy: Engadget

The Zeen will run Android 2.1 OS. However, we are not sure if it is a full Android tablet. There are reports of a webcam on some prototypes. Initially, it was believed that PalmOS would be used, but latest reports negate that.

The one interesting feature of the Zeen is the e-reading feature, for which HP has tied up with the Barnes & Noble Nook bookstore.

The Zeen runs Android 2.1 OS and combines a capacitive touchscreen, capacitive touch buttons, SD card slot, video playback support and a webcam. While some sketches of the product has been leaked from FCC, there are no leaked photos yet.

Pairing a printer with a tablet has never been done before by any company. This product will surely help buyers print documents and photos quickly without any other accessories. So eBooks from the Nook book store would be printed easily. The pairing wll be done using Wi-Fi.

The HP Zeen along with the Zeus printer is priced at $399. However, Zeen can be bought as a standalone product, but the standalone version’s price has not been revealed yet. At that price, the Zeen looks like a great buy, as mostly, Android tablets are priced closer to $ 450 so far.

Ability to print e-books through Zeen is the key proposition of the product that might make it stand out from the rest. However, there are other iPad companies like Dell, Samsung, RIM that are launching competitive products in the market this year.