We posted about Toshiba’s Encore Mini, a tablet that runs full blown Windows 8.1 and costs a mere $120, you won’t have to wait for that device to reach here because local retailer SNS Network, Intel and Microsoft Malaysia have joined forces together to introduce a locally manufactured Windows 8.1 tablet – the JOI 8 to the Malaysian market. This 8-inch tablet is priced superbly low at RM499, and the best thing is that SNS Network is allowing customers to trade in any old laptops to get a rebate of up to RM500, which is a pretty good deal.
Don’t expect the JOI 8 to pack powerful internal since it’s priced that low, the tablet has an Intel Atom Z3735E Quad-Core CPU, 1GB RAM + 16GB built-in flash with MicroSD Expansion up to 128GB, 8” WXGA (1280×800) TFT Multitouch display, 5MP+2MP rear and front cameras, WiFi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.0. The tablet doesn’t come with a standard USB port so its pretty limited on inputs, the tablet is also missing the Windows button and you’ll need to access the Start menu by calling out the charms bar. Despite of its cheap price, you are still getting goodies when you purchase the tablet, Microsoft has thrown in a year of freeOffice 365 subscription and 1TB of OneDrive storage so you are pretty getting much bang for the buck when you are already paying for such a cheap device.
To get yourself even more excited, SNS Network is currently having a roadshow in Low Yat Plaza, which early birds will be eligible to buy a Samsung 32” LED TV together with the tablet with an additional RM500, the laptop trade-in value mentioned above can be used to offset the amount; users who purchase the tablet at the roadshow are also eligible to take part in AirAsia’s “Fly for free with BIG” contest to stand a chance to win RM5000 worth of BIG points. After the roadshow, users can still buy the JOI 8 tabletfrom Lazada Malaysia. Do head on over to Low Yat Plaza this weekend to check out the JOI 8 tablet. Asking for our first impressions? We are overwhelmed with its smooth performance.
