Cisco has announced two tablets, the Cius which runs on the Android OS, Home Energy Controller that runs on Linux. Both of these will serve niche purposes, so don’t expect them to become iPad competition. The Cius is primarily for business people, allowing them to have productivity and connectivity at their fingertips, with a host of Cisco applications. The Home Energy Controller does exactly what its name says it would do, and is a countertop device that lets users control their energy costs/consumption at home. Pricing or availability for either are still unknown.
Cisco Cius
Calling it a mobile collaboration business tablet, the Cius is intended to provide executives with “Mobility, HD Video, Virtualization, Collaboration, Android OS and User Experience”. This of course, with Cisco, includes video conferencing…Software that comes pre-installed includes: Cisco AnyConnect Security VPN Client, Virtual desktop client, Cisco Telepresence, WebEx, Presence, IM, Cisco Quad and Cisco Show and Share. Apart from dual-display support, 720p HD video output, HD audio, and docking capabilities, the following are the Cius Tablet’s main specifications:
CPU: Atom Processor 1.6Ghz
Memory: 32GB of Flash storage
Connectivity: 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi, 3G/4G, Bluetooth 3.0
Display: 7-inch LCD with external display support
Battery type, life: Detachable Li-ion, 8 hours
Weight: 680gms
Cisco Home Energy Controller
Also called the HEC, the Home Energy Controller uses Cisco’s Home Energy Management software to let users view and control their home’s energy consumption and cost. By combining networking capabilities with applications for energy management, users will be able to control their “thermostats, intelligent sockets and power strips, and smart appliances such as refrigerators and water heaters”. With the hosted services, your energy provider can manage your power for you. Here are some specifications: 
CPU: 1.1GHz Intel Atom chip
Screen: 7-inch, 800 x 480 capacitive touch screen
OS: Ubuntu Linux for MID
Connectivity: 802.11 b/g/n WiFi, gigabit Ethernet, USB 2.0, GSM/HSPA, CDMA/EV-DO
RAM: 512MB DDR2 533MHz
Storage: 2GB factory expandable to 64GB
Audio: Intel HD audio and 3.5mm jack
