Toshiba is the latest company to enter the tablet fray with the announcement that it is launching a new tablet called the Toshiba Folio 100.

The new device, which is actually the most powerful Android tablet on the market, pipping the new Samsung Tab in performance specs, will feature a 10.1-inch screen, run on top of Android 2.2 (Froyo) and be powered by Nvidia's Tegra 2 processor and cost just £329 in the UK.

“Our FOLIO 100 media tablet offers a seamless, easy-to-use experience across entertainment, social networking and mobile internet – anytime and anywhere”, said Marco Perino, general manager Digital Life Products and Services.

The new model will come with an SD card slot, an HDMI connector, USB 2.0, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

A Mobile Broadband (3G) ready version will follow soon.

Other specs to send a postcard home about are 16GB of onboard memory, DLNA compatibility, a 1.3-megapixel webcam, and a the promise of 7 hours (65 per cent web browsing, 10 per cent video playback, 25 per cent standby) battery life.

Those super keen to know everything will be happy to know that it weighs 760g and measures  281x 181x 14mm.

Toshiba has said the Folio 100 will ship with a wide selection of applications pre- installed; amongst them Opera Mobile (web browser), FBReader (ebook reader), Document To Go (office suite), Evernote (notes), Adobe Flash 10.1 and Fring, and an app that in combination with the embedded webcam allows video calls with friends and family.

In the hand and it's big, slightly heavier than we would have expected, but still fairly nippy.

The Folio 100 is available Q4 in EMEA, for £329 inc VAT in UK, which is £100 cheaper than the iPad.

Check out how the Toshiba Folio 100 rates against the Samsung Galaxy Tab.

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