Unveiling the Motorola DROID XYBOARD 82 Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Introduction to Motorola DROID XYBOARD 8.2 MZ609

The Motorola DROID XYBOARD 8.2 MZ609, released in December 2011, stands out as a distinctive Android tablet during its time. Known for its robust design and credible hardware, it offered users an advanced touch device experience. Despite its eventual discontinuation, it remains a memorable gadget for tech enthusiasts and Motorola fans. This article delves into every aspect of this device, providing a comprehensive review of its features, design, and capabilities.

Design and Build

One of the highlights of the Motorola DROID XYBOARD 8.2 is its design. With dimensions of 216 x 139 x 9 mm, it offers a compact and portable experience while maintaining a sleek, professional look. Weighing in at 390 g, the device is relatively lightweight, making it easy for users to carry and use on the go. The inclusion of a mini-SIM slot ensures that users have more connectivity options.

Display

The tablet boasts an 8.2-inch HD-IPS LCD screen, offering clear and vibrant visuals with an 800 x 1280 pixel resolution. This translates to a pixel density of approximately 184 ppi. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass, ensuring durability against scratches and minor impacts, making it a reliable choice for everyday use.

Performance and Platform

Equipped with a Dual-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A9 processor and a TI OMAP 4430 chipset, the DROID XYBOARD 8.2 promises decent performance for a range of applications. Coupled with a PowerVR SGX540 GPU, it ensures smooth graphic performances for multimedia and graphical interfaces. Initially shipped with Android 3.2 (Honeycomb), it is upgradable to Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich), providing users with better app compatibility and improved system features.

Storage and Memory

The device is available in two variants: 16GB and 32GB of internal storage, both coupled with 1GB RAM. However, a notable limitation is the absence of a card slot, which means that the storage cannot be expanded beyond its internal capacity. This can be a critical factor for users who need extensive storage for apps and media content.

Camera Capabilities

The Motorola DROID XYBOARD 8.2 is equipped with a 5 MP autofocus rear camera with LED flash, capable of capturing decent imagery in various lighting conditions. It can also record videos at 720p resolution at 30fps. For video chats and selfies, a 1.3 MP front camera is present, though it suits more basic requirements due to its lower resolution compared to modern standards.

Audio and Sound

The device features stereo speakers, offering an immersive audio experience with clear sound quality. Additionally, it includes a 3.5mm audio jack, allowing users to connect headphones or external speakers conveniently, which is an appreciated feature for media consumption.

Connectivity and Network

The connectivity options on this device are both diverse and robust for its time. It supports GSM, CDMA, HSPA, EVDO, and LTE technologies, offering broad network compatibility and flexibility, particularly for Verizon users in the 4G bands. For wireless connectivity, it supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n with dual-band and hotspot capabilities. Other notable connections include Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP and EDR, GPS with A-GPS support, and a microUSB 2.0 port for charging and data transfer.

Sensors and Additional Features

In terms of sensors, the Motorola DROID XYBOARD 8.2 comes equipped with an accelerometer, gyro, compass, and barometer. These sensors enhance the device's usability by supporting various applications, from gaming to navigation tools, ensuring users have a multi-functional device.

Battery Life

The tablet is powered by a non-removable Li-Ion 3960 mAh battery, providing a respectable talk time of up to 6 hours. While it was adequate for moderate use, power users might find the need for regular charging, especially when utilizing more demanding applications or network services. The battery's performance aligns with the typical expectations from devices of its era.

Market Position and Conclusion

When it was first released at approximately 290 EUR, the Motorola DROID XYBOARD 8.2 was considered a competitive choice among tablets. It offered a solid build, reliable performance, and versatile connectivity options, making it a suitable option for professional and personal use. Despite being discontinued, its legacy remains through its impact on mid-sized tablet design and functionality.