Android Phones
Archos 5 160GB Internet Tablet pulled by Amazon
October 11, 2009 | by Robert Nelson
Android Devices, MID
It was just yesterday that I mentioned how the Archos 5 Internet tablet was available at Amazon, however that has since changed for one of the two previously available models.
As of this morning the 160GB Archos 5 with Android has been flagged as “Item Under Review.” Unfortunately, there is not any real reason as to why, other than the generic;
“This item is currently unavailable from Amazon.com because customers have told us there may be something wrong with our inventory of the item, the way we are shipping it, or the way it’s described here. (Thanks for the tip!)”
That said, the 32GB SSD model is still available if you cannot wait to make a purchase. Personally, I am curious as to why it was removed, not to mention very happy that I never placed an order.
[Amazon via Pocketables]
I have a 32 GB SSD model – its okay but if they don't grant access to something other then AppsLib for applications namely allowing access to the android marketplace when the Donut upgrade comes out i will regret the purchase. I wish I could run it like an android device and not have Archos Multimedia junk on top of Android.
I bought the 32gb fro Amazon – fast shipping, great packaging. I have had a few little issues with setup and getting started, nothing like I have had with MS anyX or any flavor of Linux I have tried on other items. The biggest problem was the inadequate documentation on how to do anything the first time…the online Manual really only tells you how to play their media players.
As to the app libraries? I've successfully loaded the AndAppStore, Slide Motembo 3.3 as well as the included AppsLib and used all three to download and install bunches of things to try. Of course this device is NOT a phone and doesn't have a camera, so many of the apps are usless – (actually it appears from reading the app "bios" that many of them would be usless for me anyway).
There are some apps that won't install, some that only want a tiny phone-like screen and some that install easily and work great! My guess is that is about the same as in the Android Phone market.
Since I didn't want a phone or camera I think this device is great. It will make a wonderful replacement for my aging Palm Clie. The integrated wifi and gps are super (once you get past the horrid documentation on how to get them started correctly.)
The Archos 5IMT wants a more intimate relationship with its person, kind of like a Linus box. So if you want to just thumb little buttons, skip it. If you want to think about what you are doing and how the device is thinking with you, buy it and be happy.