More hybrid tablets slated for 2012

Tablet computers are likely to see some major changes in 2012. Though the technology is still relatively young, it is evolving fast as different manufacturers bring ideas to the table in an effort to meet consumer and business demands.

One development expected to unfold in 2012, according to technology news provider CNET Asia, is the emergence of the hybrid tablet, which marries the characteristics of a tablet with another type of device, like a laptop or a smartphone.

The devices may come with any number of features. Typically, the design resembles that of a tablet, but it may also include, for example, a detachable keyboard, voice-calling capabilities and more. CNET highlights the WikiPad, which looks like a tablet computer sandwiched between a video game controller and could be instrumental in taking tablet gaming to the next level.

One thing tablet users should not expect to see in 2012 is longer battery life, CNET says. With the emergence of 4G, multi-core processors and other tablet technology, development in this space is likely to be focused more on performance than on the battery.

A number of tablet software developments are also in the pipeline for 2012. For example, Microsoft® is set to release its Windows® 8 later in the year, and the market could see more releases from other players as well.