The new Cisco enterprise Android tablet, the Cisco CIUS, is not the same as all the other Android tablets for sale. It is not designed for the consumer market, but for the very different Enterprise business market.

This is hard to classify, since the mobile tablet aspect is only a small part of its capabilities. It is also a telephone, desktop HD video conferencing endpoint, and virtual desktop station. Moreover, it is designed from the beginning for security. With so many capabilities, it can be a very handy device for businesses that are able to put to use all it can offer.

The most interesting part of any CIUS demo is the HD video conferencing, which can use either the front or back cameras. The HD video runs at 720p with 30 fps, and is definitely a high quality video system. It is a much better video calling experience than one gets from Google Talk or Skype, which are smaller resolution with a lesser frame rate.

Pros

  • Enterprise tablet that is centrally managed with a restricted App store.
  • Cisco Unified Communications endpoint with both video and voice calls.
  • Standards based HD video client with 720p resolution at 30 fps and dual cameras.
  • Secure connectivity with Cisco AnyConnect VPN.
  • Replaceable battery.

Cons

  • Heavier than similar sized Android tablets.
  • Needs other Cisco back end applications to take full advantage of capabilities.
  • 7″ form factor too small for full virtual desktop client.
  • 7″ version has low external monitor resolution at 1024×600.
  • Cisco Unified Communications Manager version 8.5.1 or later necessary for device management.

The Cisco CIUS is a new category of tablet device that is focused on a distinctly different market than the consumer tablets from Apple and other Android tablet manufacturers. When it is used in an enterprise environment that has the right type of back end applications, it can be a very useful device. The two issues of limited screen area and low external monitor screen resolution on the 7″ CIUS are a potential hindrance in its use as a general purpose tablet.

This is overall a good device that works well and can be the main device for a businesses mobile rollout. It is a very good selection for organizations that have requirements for security and have existing Cisco voice, video, and virtualization systems.

The Cisco CIUSworks best with Cisco Video Infrastructure.