Global networking leader Cisco has launched its enterprise focused tablet, the Cisco Cius, in South Africa. The Cius is a business tablet that is intended to deliver virtual desktop integration as well as the means for seamless collaboration to businesses.  

Craig Zeeman, the director for Cisco Service Provider, Cisco Systems, explained that the rapid rise of mobile working has created increased demand for flexible, alternative workspaces that meet the needs of both company and worker. “As South African businesses rapidly transition to this new way of working, the Cius will provide the flexibility demanded by today’s workforce,” he asserted.

Feature set

The 7” tablet includes an Intel Atom 1.6 GHz processor and runs off Android 2.2 (Froyo), boasting 32 GB of flash memory as well as a miniSD port that supports up to 32 GB additional storage. Its functionality can further be extended by pairing it with a optional high definition (HD) audio station, that is equipped with a telephone handset speakerphone, HD DisplayPort and USB ports.

The device itself, which weighs half a kilogram, features a 720p HD camera that offers up to 30 frames per second as well as a five megapixel rear camera. In keeping with its collaborative focus, the tablet also features dual noise-cancelling microphones for audio conferencing, and single-button TelePresence interoperability that can be engaged either when the tablet is docked, or being used remotely via 802.11 a/b/g/n Wi-Fi  or 3G cellular services. 4G services will be available at a later date.

The company explained that it had chosen the 7” form factor – rather than the 9.7” or 10.1” that many other tablets seem to be favouring – for its portability. The device further offers a unified inbox, where all recent calls, emails, video chats and appointments logged in the calendar can be viewed per contact. As seen on the Toshiba AT100, the Cisco Cius has a detachable battery, with which to further extend its eight hour battery life.