Android tablet success depends on Ice Cream Sandwich, Intel CEO says

Intel® CEO Paul Otellini believes Android-based tablet computers will be better equipped to compete with Apple's iPad® once the Ice Cream Sandwich operating system becomes more prevalent.

According to technology news provider CNET, Otellini expressed this assertion on a conference call to discuss his company's annual earnings. He mentioned that success in the tablet market -- much like with smartphones -- is dependent on software rather than hardware.

"Until you get to Ice Cream Sandwich, the offering isn't as powerful as with what's out there with Apple," Otellini said, according to CNET. "As Ice Cream Sandwich tablets start shipping, you'll begin to see a little bit better receptivity … everything got a little bit better with ICS."

Ice Cream Sandwich was released in the fall of 2011, and is considered a strong candidate for pushing Google into the fray of the tablet industry. Few Ice Cream Sandwich-based tablets have hit the market as of yet, but a slew of devices is expected to arrive in early 2012.

Research firm IDC notes that Android made a strong showing in the fourth quarter of 2011, capturing 40.3 percent of the market. The gain is largely attributable to the release of new, low-cost devices.