Launching of Aakash tablet

(a) the reasons for the target of launching of Aakash tablet in October having been missed again;

(b) whether Aakash is technically ready for being launched; and

(c) how the new Aakash is different from the earlier one?

Evolution of Aakash 2 from Aakash 1 has been a continuing multistep effort, requiring time at each step for stabilizing the product. Many of these steps have been necessitated by availability of better hardware within the targeted price band. Deliveries of final version of Aakash commenced in October and after receiving and testing these tablets in sizable numbers, the new version called Aakash 2 was launched by the Hon’ble President of India on the occasion of National Education Day i.e. 11th November, 2012.

Earlier, on 5.10.2011, the Low Cost Access-cum-computing Devices (LCAD) Aakash was launched and based on the feedback received; the specifications of Aakash tablet have been enhanced. Difference between new Aakash from the earlier one is as furnished in the table below:

S. No.	Technical Specifications	Aakash	Aakash 2
1	Processor	366 MHz	1 GHz
2	Memory (RAM)	256 MB	512 MB
3	Storage (Internal)	2 GB	4GB
4	SD Card slot for external memory	Up to 32 GB	up to 32 GB
5	Peripheral	2 x Standard Type A Mini USB 2.02 Ports	USB 2.0 port with 4 Port USB Hub
6	Audio-out	1×3.5 mm jack	Integrated speakers
7	Audio-in	1×3.5 mm jack	3.5mm jack for external headphones/speakers
8	Display and Resolution	7″ resistive touch Screen with 800×480 pixel resolution	7″ multi-touch capacitive projective display with at least 800×480 resolution/screen
9	Connectivity	WiFi	WiFi
10	Battery	2100 mAh	3000 mAh
11	Playback Support	HD Video	HD Video
12	Operating System	Android 2.2 (Froyo)	Android 4.0 (Ice-Cream Sandwich)

This statement was submitted by Minister of State in the Ministry of Human Resource Development Dr. Shashi Tharoor in Rajya Sabha in reply of undermentioned question:-