Archos unveils G9 tablets

Archos has unveiled its G9 tablets, which will come in eight-inch and 10.1-inch 'Turbo' versions, the largest of which will pack 750GB of storage, reports PCMag.

The devices will run the A9, a dual-core OMAP 4 processor from Texas Instruments, which Archos says will translate into 50% more “raw computational power” over competing tablets, which usually run Nvidia Tegra 2 processors.

ZDnet says the G9 series' biggest pull is its upgradeable hard drive.

Rather than strictly offering a flash storage-based tablet, Archos decided to run with spinning disc-based hard drives as well. This is usually considered problematic, as spinning hard drives add size and weight, while typically decreasing battery time - all of which create a less than favourable portable device.

However, Archos says it uses a unique hybrid technology with its tablets; the 4GB flash caching system saves on disk drive wear and tear, according to Examiner.com.

Archos adds it has included technology that “limits spinning and keeps the drive powered down when not in use, which will protect it when on-the-go, as well as preserve battery life”.