Sony Chief Confirms Honeycomb Tablet Incoming [Updated]

Updates at the foot of the post.

Sony CEO Howard Stringer has confirmed that Sony will be releasing an Android tablet this year, telling the Nikkei newspaper that its Honeycomb-powered device will launched in the US by the “end of the summer”.

It’s possible that the tablet Stringer references confirms the existence of a PlayStation Certified Tegra 2-powered tablet that features a special “wrap” design.

Engadget suggests the new tablet could have a 9.4-inch display with a 1280 x 800 pixel resolution, featuring VAIO content creator, Qriocity media streaming platform and PlayStation gaming. Bravia technology, USB ports and infra-red ports are also said to be included.

Stringer was said to have announced Sony was developing a tablet at the same event where he also let slip the electronics giant was to supply Apple with 8-megapixel sensors for its new iPhone model.

We have reached out to Sony for comment and will update as soon as we receive a reply.

Update : A spokesperson from Sony confirmed that the company was readying a tablet device, issuing a statement saying that the company “plans to introduce the tablet into the market by the end of this year”.

Playbuttons: button shaped mixtapes in the modern age

Remember the days you spent arduously creating custom mixtapes for that special someone? Opening Ceremony , an uber hip shop in New York City has just released a slew of “ Playbuttons “, recreating the special made for you mixtape experience in button shaped mp3 players.

This week’s playbutton is the love button, which includes a suite of new, previously unreleased, and exclusive love songs. All proceeds from this playbutton will be donated to musicians on call, a non-profit that brings live and recorded music to the bedsides of hospital patients. The love button is selling at Open Ceremony in a limited edition of 500. ($25)

Apple reportedly forecasts 40 million iPad shipments in 2011

According to Digitimes , Apple has set its sights on shipping over 40 million iPads in 2011, taking delivery of up to 6.5 million of first and second generation tablet devices in the first quarter.

Sourcing its information from Apple suppliers, the Chinese publication notes that Apple will receive between 300,000 and 400,000 units in its first batch, easing a potential supply backlog when the yet-to-be-announced iPad 2 makes its debut.

The Cupertino company reportedly ordered up to 2 million iPads over January and February to satisfy demand, with order volumes expected to rise substantially above 2 million units for the month of March. Apple has begun to phase out the first-generation iPad, pushing back delivery dates on its stores across the world.

Apple is expected to announce its new iPad today, a device that is likely to feature front and back facing cameras, a faster processor and a thinner profile. We will be reporting live, check back later today for our dedicated Apple iPad coverage.