Murena Volla Tablet Launches with /e/OS: A Privacy-Focused Android Alternative

The Murena Volla Tablet has officially launched in the US, UK, and Europe as a privacy-focused tablet that ships with /e/OS, an open-source operating system that removes Google's services and apps from Android. This new variant of the Volla Tablet represents a significant shift in the tablet market, offering consumers a device that prioritizes privacy without requiring technical expertise to install alternative operating systems.

What is /e/OS?

/e/OS is an Android-based operating system developed by the E Foundation that strips away Google's proprietary services and replaces them with open-source, privacy-respecting alternatives. Unlike simply removing Google apps, /e/OS provides a complete ecosystem with its own app store, cloud services, and default applications. The operating system is designed to work seamlessly with third-party Android apps while maintaining user privacy.

For those unfamiliar with the concept, /e/OS functions similarly to how custom ROMs like LineageOS work, but with a stronger focus on privacy and a more polished user experience. The E Foundation has put considerable effort into creating a cohesive ecosystem that doesn't feel like a stripped-down version of Android.

Hardware Specifications

The Murena Volla Tablet shares identical hardware specifications with the original Volla Tablet, ensuring that users get the same physical device regardless of which operating system they choose. The tablet features:

• Display: 12.6-inch IPS LCD with 2560 x 1600 pixel resolution
• Processor: MediaTek Helio G99 with 2 Arm Cortex-A76 cores, 6 Cortex-A55 cores, and Mali-G57 MC2 graphics
• Memory: 12GB RAM
• Storage: 512GB internal storage with microSD support up to 1TB
• Connectivity: WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, 4G LTE modem
• Ports: USB 2.0 Type-C, pogo pins for optional keyboard attachment
• Battery: 10,000 mAh capacity
• Cameras: 13MP rear, 5MP front
• Dimensions: 291 x 189 x 8mm (11.5" x 7.4" x 0.3")
• Weight: 500 grams (1.1 pounds)

Software Considerations

The tablet ships with /e/OS based on Android 14, which provides compatibility with most Android applications while maintaining the privacy-focused approach. However, this version is somewhat dated, as Google has already released the first public beta of Android 17. This means users will be running software that's a few generations behind the latest Android releases.

Despite this, /e/OS offers several advantages for privacy-conscious users:

• No Google Services: Eliminates Google's tracking and data collection
• Open Source: Transparent code that can be audited
• Privacy-Focused Apps: Includes alternatives to Google services like maps, email, and cloud storage
• MicroG Integration: Provides compatibility with apps that require Google Play Services without the privacy concerns

Pricing and Availability

The Murena Volla Tablet is priced at 698€ in Europe and $798 in the US, which positions it as a premium device despite its mid-range specifications. This pricing strategy is notable because it matches the price of the Volla OS and Ubuntu Touch versions of the same tablet.

While the price point may seem steep for a tablet with mid-range specs, it's important to consider what you're paying for:

1. Pre-installed Privacy OS: No need to flash the device yourself

• 1. 2-Year Warranty: Standard manufacturer support
• 1. Cellular Connectivity: 4G LTE support for mobile data
• 1. Premium Build Quality: 12GB RAM and 512GB storage are generous for this price range

Market Position

The Murena Volla Tablet occupies a unique niche in the tablet market. While most privacy-focused devices require technical knowledge to install custom operating systems, this tablet comes ready to use with privacy protections built-in. This approach makes privacy accessible to mainstream users who may not be comfortable with the technical process of installing custom ROMs.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other tablets in the same price range, the Murena Volla Tablet offers:

• Privacy: A clear advantage over mainstream Android tablets
• Storage: 512GB is generous compared to many competitors
• Memory: 12GB RAM is competitive with premium tablets
• Cellular: 4G LTE support that many tablets lack
• Software: Android 14 is somewhat dated but still functional

However, it faces competition from:

• iPad: Superior ecosystem and software support
• Samsung Galaxy Tab: Better integration with Android apps and services
• Amazon Fire Tablets: Much lower price point, though with Amazon's ecosystem

Target Audience

The Murena Volla Tablet is clearly aimed at privacy-conscious consumers who want a tablet experience without Google's ecosystem. This includes:

• Privacy Advocates: Users concerned about data collection and tracking
• Open Source Enthusiasts: Those who prefer transparent, auditable software
• Tech-Savvy Users: People comfortable with alternative app stores and services
• International Users: Those in regions where Google services may be restricted

Future Considerations

As mobile operating systems continue to evolve, the Murena Volla Tablet's position may become more challenging. With Android 17 on the horizon and Google's ecosystem becoming more deeply integrated into Android, maintaining compatibility while preserving privacy will require ongoing development effort from the E Foundation.

The success of this tablet could influence other manufacturers to consider offering privacy-focused alternatives to their standard Android offerings. If consumers show demand for devices that prioritize privacy over convenience, it could lead to more competition in this space.

Conclusion

The Murena Volla Tablet represents an interesting experiment in bringing privacy-focused computing to the mainstream tablet market. While the price point may be high for the hardware specifications, the value proposition lies in the pre-installed /e/OS operating system and the privacy protections it provides.

For users who prioritize privacy and are willing to accept some trade-offs in terms of software ecosystem and cutting-edge features, the Murena Volla Tablet offers a compelling alternative to mainstream Android tablets. However, the dated Android version and premium pricing may limit its appeal to a niche audience of privacy-conscious consumers.

The tablet's success will likely depend on whether consumers are willing to pay a premium for privacy and whether the E Foundation can continue to provide timely updates and maintain compatibility with the broader Android ecosystem.