Toshiba will make its second entrance into the tablet space later this year when it launches its still-to-be-named 10.1-inch iPad competitor, according to Engadget. The Japanese company will formally announce the device at the upcoming CES (News - Alert) technology show.

Judging by the initial specs of the new tablet computer, it should have what it takes to make a bigger splash than the Folio 100, which was Toshiba's (News - Alert) first attempt in the space and is generally regarded as a flop.

The unnamed tab will be equipped with a capacitive 1280 x 800-resolution display and an ambient light sensor that should give it a vibrant look and feel. Unlike the current iPad, Toshiba's tablet will be equipped with a 5-megapixel rear camera as well as a 2-megapixel front-facing camera designed for video calls. However, the device will only be offered with WiFi (News - Alert) connectivity. Toshiba has no current plans to launch a 3G-enabled version, according to Crunch Gear.

The 10.1-inch multitouch tab will be loaded with a NVIDIA Tegra 2 processor and will run on HoneyComb, Google's next-generation Android (News - Alert) operating system that is set to be launched later this year. HoneyComb is said to be designed specifically for tablets.

Toshiba's new iPad competitor will come with a USB port, an HDMI interface with 1080p HD video output capabilities, an SD card slot and a replaceable battery. The device also comes standard with a padded EasyGrip, rubberized back that gives the 1.7-pound frame a sturdy feel.

The consumer electronics giant will offer users a wide variety of applications through the Android marketplace and its own branded app store. Toshiba will be unable to announce a specific launch date until HoneyComb is officially released, which should occur sometime this spring. Engadget is reporting that the tablet's price point will be "competitive" with other products in the marketplace.

Beecher Tuttle is a TMCnet contributor. He has extensive experience writing and editing for print publications and online news websites. He has specialized in a variety of industries, including health care technology, politics and education. To read more of his articles, please visit his columnist page.

Edited by Tammy Wolf