Amazon's Premium Tablet Gets Almost Everything Right

Key Points:

• Amazon is shifting its tablet strategy with the new Alexa Tablet Pro 12, which is a full-fledged Android tablet featuring Google's apps and Play Store access, unlike previous Fire tablets that relied on Amazon's limited app store.
• The Alexa Tablet Pro 12 offers a premium design similar to Apple's iPad Air and Pro, including a 12-inch 2800x1840 display with a 120Hz refresh rate and an optional nanomatte anti-reflective screen finish, making it a strong competitor at a $499 starting price.
• Despite solid hardware and accessories like an optional keyboard and stylus, the tablet's performance and app experience are hindered by Android's limitations on large screens and occasional software lag.
• The device emphasizes Amazon services with preloaded apps and Alexa integration but allows easy access to Google apps and Play Store downloads, balancing Amazon-first features with Android flexibility.
• Priced at $550 with the nanomatte screen and offering good multitasking and media capabilities, the Alexa Tablet Pro 12 is a compelling mid-range alternative to iPads, especially for users seeking value over the premium iPad ecosystem.