Xperia Z Tablet: World's Thinnest Android Tablet is Also Waterproof Says Sony

Sony announced its Xperia Z tablet will be available worldwide later this spring, including a release in the United States.

"The Tablet Z is 6.9mm thick - Sony says it's the thinnest 10.1″ tablet on the market - and it weighs just 1.09lb," writes Time.

"It's waterproof - Sony dumped a Z in a small aquarium during its demo for me, with no ill effects. It's the first tablet to use Qualcomm's newest Snapdragon S4 quad-core processor. And its camera features seem to be a cut above average: the rear camera packs 8 megapixels, and the camera app is modeled on the interface which Sony uses for its standalone digital cameras. " Check out the full specs below.

Some sources say the Xperia Z tablet won't hit the U.S. until June, but I suppose that's still technically spring.

"A black model of the Xperia Tablet Z will be available in 16GB and 32GB storage options for $499 and $599, respectively," writes IGN.

"A microSD slot will allow storage up to 64GB. Sony will offer a white, 32GB model, but only through Sony Stores and the company's online retail shop."

That price point puts the Xperia Z tablet on par with Apple's iPads, considerably more expensive than Amazon's Kindle Fire HD or Google's Nexus tablet line, so it's apparent who Sony's gunning for.

Sony Xperia Z tablet full specs:

- 10.1" Full HD 1920x1200p Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA Engine 2
- The world's thinnest 10.1" tablet at 6.9 mm* and lightweight at 495 grams
- Dust and water resistant (IP55 & IP57) with a durable glass front display
- Built-in universal IR remote control can control Sony and other manufacturers' consumer electronic devices
- Snapdragon S4 Pro processor with 1.5 GHz asynchronous quad-core CPU and 2 GB RAM
- One-Touch connectivity with Near Field Communication (NFC)
- A unique OmniBalance design with subtly rounded edges and smooth reflective surfaces
- 8 MP rear camera featuring Exmor R for Mobile and Superior Auto plus 2MP HD front camera
- Battery STAMINA mode further improves the standby time
- S-Force Front Surround 3D provides realistic surround sound using two speakers