Google Preparing LG-Made Nexus Tablet, Blocking 3.0 Slate Updates, Tips Insider

Google is reportedly working with LG on a "Google Nexus Tablet", a Honeycomb reference design which – like the Nexus line of smartphones – would be first to receive OS and interface updates. According to Mobile-Review, the slate (the official name of which is currently unknown) is already being readied for a mid-summer or early-fall release.

No specifications have been shared, nor potential carrier partners, and it's not clear whether Google will be attempting to sell the Nexus Tablet direct to consumers or via subsidized deals. The search giant's motivation is presumably to have a slate device with which it can shape the evolution of the tablet segment, much as it did with the original Nexus One for phones.

Meanwhile, there's also talk that Google's licensing agreement with OEMs for Android 2.x and 3.x specifically prevents them from upgrading 2.x devices – such as the original Samsung Galaxy Tab – to Honeycomb. That could have a significant impact on the HTC Flyer, which was said to be using Gingerbread so as to reach the market quicker, and then receive a Honeycomb update later in 2011. According to Mobile-Review, the Flyer will now launch in most markets come May with Honeycomb preloaded. We're checking with HTC to see if they can clarify the situation.

[via Android Community]