Back in July, Nvidia revealed its second SHIELD-labeled gaming device, the SHIELD Tablet, for $299. It followed the first Shield gaming console ($199) that was in the shape of a gaming controller (but with a 5-inch flip-up screen). For the second generation, Nvidia chose the tablet form factor and a standalone wireless controller.
Now the company has announced the launch of a 4G LTE model with 32 GB of internal storage for just $100 more than the “basic” Wi-Fi only version. The rest of the specifications remain the same: Nvidia’s new Tegra K1 SoC, an 8-inch screen with a 1920 x 1200 resolution, 2 GB of RAM, front-facing speakers and a dual bass reflex port with a built-in microphone.
“Now you can buy the SHIELD tablet with 4G LTE capabilities for streaming movies, music, Twitch and playing your favorite multiplayer games, like War Thunder, on the go. It’s a fully unlocked device and has the capability to support 70+ carriers worldwide,” said Nvidia’s Mithun Chandrasekhar in a blog.
According to the blog, the gaming tablet is certified on AT&T’s 4G LTE network even though it’s unlocked. AT&T customers who activate the tablet on their account will receive a $100 credit towards their bill as long as it’s on a qualifying plan. On the Mobile Share Value plan, the tablet costs a mere $10 per month. Additional information regarding adding the tablet to an AT&T account can be accessed here.
In addition to the new 4G LTE tablet, Chandrasekhar said that three Android games optimized for the SHIELD tablet will be arriving soon. These include Beach Buggy Racing (kart racing), BombSquad (multiplayer mini-games) and Broadsword: Age of Chivalry (turn-based strategy).
Customers can pre-purchase the SHIELD 4G LTE tablet now for $399. Chandrasekhar said that the device will ship on September 30 (although the site says October 1) via Nvidia’s website as well as Amazon, Best Buy, Fry’s Electronics, GameStop, Micro Center, Newegg and Tiger Direct.
Currently, the company is also offering a number of SHIELD accessories including the Wireless Controller ($59.99), the SHIELD Tablet Cover ($39.99), an additional DirectStylus 2 ($19.99) and an additional SHIELD AC Adapter ($29.99).
