While reduced in size, the 7-inch model still offers a more complete experience compared to other competing brands. Fitting comfortably on the palm of one’s hand, the Thrive hosts a great variety of games, books, movies, and many more. Web experience is even enhanced further with the feature-packed native Internet browser of Android 3.2.1 making the device a premier web tablet.

The TFT active matrix display

The display resolution of this Toshiba tablet natively supports up to 1280 by 800 pixels. The brilliant high-definition touchscreen display features the proprietary AutoBrite technology with LED backlight for a more vivid rendering of graphics. With Toshiba’s adaptive display technology, the screen lighting automatically adjusts to the lighting environment so that the best viewing experience is ensured every time. Another visual enhancement feature is Resolution+ which drives the color enhancements for superb video playback.

The power of NVIDIA Tegra 2

The dual-core processor running at 1 GHz is backed by a generous 1 GB DDR2 RAM to deliver high-definition entertainment without any signs of slowing down. To complete the multimedia experience, premium audio technologies are linked with the processor to deliver high-quality audio on top of high-quality graphics. Referred to as the Ambient Noise Equalizer, the tablet automatically adjusts volume settings so that a significant improvement in sound quality is achieved.

Web browsing is also made faster even when other applications are concurrently running with this ample amount of processing power. With native support for Adobe Flash content, surfing the web becomes a highly enriched experience.

Software support

Although Google has its own curated library of Android apps, Toshiba established its own app store, known as the App Place, which hosts a number of premium apps tailored to run in the Thrive and take advantage of its unique features not found in other Android tablets. Of course, the familiar Google apps such as Gmail, Google Books, Google Maps, and many more come preinstalled.

Connectivity and other multimedia features

Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n standard is, of course, fully supported by the product in addition to Bluetooth wireless technology. To connect seamlessly with other electronic gadgets, the Thrive complies with the Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) standards for interoperability. It also features both front and rear cameras with 2 and 5 megapixels, respectively, which can be used for taking snapshots as well as for video chat.

The Toshiba Thrive can really do more compared to other competing brands in the market for its price at $380. Additional features such as built-in GPS are also available in other select models.