Optus intends its tablet range expansion to provide its customers with more flexibility, portability, easy sharing and improved performance in video streaming, web browsing and game playing.

In a statement, Optus consumer marketing director Gavin Williams highlighted the versatility of both newly launched tablets. ¡°The Streak 7 is a great device for portable use as it¡¯s just so light and nimble, while the Iconia showcases an impressive host of design features along with practicality,¡± he said. ¡°We¡¯re excited to range these two excellent devices in the lead up to Christmas to maximise the choice for customers looking to treat themselves or others.¡±

Optus is offering the Dell Streak 7 for $0 upfront on the $29 Optus Tablet plan over 24 months (total minimum cost is $696). For $279, the prepaid plan includes the tablet and a SIM card with start-up credit. The Acer Iconia Tab A501 is also on offer for $0 upfront on the $39 Optus Tablet plan over 24 months (total minimum cost is $936).

The Dell Streak 7 features the NVIDIA Tegra T20 dual core processor and Android Honeycomb 3.2, a 7¡± WVGA capacitive screen, a 5MP auto-focus camera with LED flash, 16GB internal memory and SD Card slot supporting expandable memory up to 32GB. Weighing 450g, the Streak is designed as an ideal travel companion. It has a built-in 3G HSPA+ compatible modem and the Dell Stage user-interface for uninterrupted access to web content.

The Acer Iconia Tab A501 promises a rich gaming, multimedia and web experience. It features a 10.1¡± multi-touch, high-resolution screen and several connectivity options including USB, mini HDMI and Micro SD. The tablet is available in both 16GB and 32GB storage capacities. Powered by a dual-core NVIDIA Tegra 2 processor and running on Android Honeycomb 3.2, the tablet is designed for superior web browsing through Flash 10.2 support and its 3G HSPA+ module which offers 21Mpbs downlink. The Iconia has an ultra-sensitive gyro meter to enhance portable gaming.