Tesco Introduces Android Tablet under Its Brand, Named 'Hudl'
Tesco's Crack into the Tablet Market: The Hudl 101
emotionally detached, buddy
UK retail juggernaut Tesco has just unveiled its very own tablet device, dubbed 'Hudl'. This 7" Android-powered gadget has been designed in-house, according to Tesco, and is being manufactured by an unnamed Chinese manufacturer.
for $149, this not-so-cheap tablet goes head-to-head with its competitors, and Clubcard holders will enjoy savings. The Hudl will be available for purchase online and in-store.
- *FYI: Tesco also offers a TV channel (exclusive to Clubcard holders)*
Although Tesco Mobile is their mobile telecom division, Hudl will operate strictly on Wi-Fi, and won't support 3G.
Recent research suggests that only a fourth of UK households currently own a tablet. Speaking on the matter, Tesco's CEO (formerly their IT director), Philip Clarke, said, "It's high time Tesco stepped in and helped increase tablet ownership, making these innovative devices accessible for more Brits."
Traditionally associated with groceries and self-checkout kiosks, Tesco's tablets foray into the tech market isn't entirely out of left field. Earlier this year, they launched Clubcard TV, an on-demand streaming service. The service is ad-supported, and the ads are targeted based on your shopping habits.
Hudl users can look forward to "instant access" to Tesco's range of digital services, including Clubcard TV and online shopping & banking, all from the convenience of a dedicated launcher button.
- *Btw, Tesco also sees massive savings with supply chain analytics*
Many retailers have tried dabbling in mobile devices, with varying degrees of success. Amazon's Kindle range is expected to rake in an estimated $4.5 billion in revenue for the company this year. Meanwhile, Barnes & Noble, the US bookstore chain, took a huge $475 million loss last year when they chose to cease Nook e-reader manufacturing.
WHSmith, nonetheless, has had success partnering with Canadian company Kobo, offering e-readers and e-books to their customers. WHSmith's CEO, Stephen Clarke, credits the Kobo for contributing significantly to the company's 5% profit growth in their most recent financial year.
So, how does the Hudl stack up against the competition? The Hudl, with its Android OS, provides access to the Google Play Store, boasting a wider app selection compared to Amazon's Appstore. The Hudl offers more general-purpose tablet functionality, while Amazon's Kindle devices are targeted towards e-reading.
If you're wondering how the Hudl compares to the old Nook devices from Barnes & Noble, well, the Hudl's LCD screen and Android OS are more versatile compared to Nook's e-ink focus on reading, but the Nook excels in reading experiences due to its e-ink technology and comfortable reading features.
Tesco's newly unveiled tablet device, the Hudl, offers access to a wide array of technology, including digital services such as Clubcard TV and online shopping & banking, making it a potential contender in the market, emotionally detached from the struggles faced by other retailers like Barnes & Noble. For Buddy, this 7" Android-powered gadget is not-so-cheap at $149, but offers a more general-purpose tablet functionality compared to Amazon's Kindle devices, which are primarily designed for e-reading.
