Murena Volla Tablet: Android 14-like /e/OS, €696 Price

European technology firm Murena is entering the tablet market with the Volla Tablet, a device positioned as a privacy-focused alternative to mainstream offerings. Priced at €698 in Europe and $798 in the United States, the Volla Tablet runs /e/OS, a de-Googled version of Android, and aims to appeal to consumers concerned about data security and corporate tracking.

The launch represents a significant step for Murena, which has previously focused on smartphones running /e/OS. The company’s core proposition centers on providing a mobile ecosystem free from Google’s data collection practices. /e/OS removes Google’s proprietary apps and services, replacing them with open-source alternatives, while still allowing users to access the vast majority of Android applications.

The Volla Tablet boasts a Mediatek Helio P99 processor and 512GB of internal storage. It features a 12.6-inch display and a substantial 10,000 mAh battery. Murena emphasizes the tablet’s European manufacturing, framing it as an ethical and fair choice for consumers. The company also offers Murena Workspace, a service designed for secure storage of photos and documents.

The pricing of the Volla Tablet has already sparked debate. A post on the /e/OS community forum questioned the justification for the €698 price tag, given the tablet’s mid-range specifications. The cost is notably higher than comparable Android tablets from established manufacturers.

Despite the higher price point, Murena is betting on growing demand for privacy-focused devices. The company highlights the increasing awareness of data tracking and the desire for greater control over personal information. /e/OS, at its core, is designed to minimize data collection and provide users with transparency regarding app permissions and data usage.

However, potential buyers outside of Europe should be aware of a limitation: the Volla Tablet will function solely as a Wi-Fi device in those regions. This restriction is due to certification and regulatory requirements, according to Murena.

Murena’s broader product portfolio includes the Fairphone 6, priced at $749, the Teracube 2s at $339.90, and the Hiroh phone powered by Murena, currently available for pre-sale at $99. The company also offers refurbished Pixel 7 and Pixel 8 devices, priced between $489 and $714. These offerings demonstrate Murena’s commitment to providing alternatives to mainstream smartphone vendors.

The company offers a 2-year warranty on the Volla Tablet, and currently, the device is listed as being out of stock, with customers able to join a waitlist to be notified when it becomes available again. Shipping times are estimated at 5-7 days after restocking.

The Volla Tablet’s success will likely hinge on Murena’s ability to convince consumers that the added privacy features and ethical manufacturing justify the premium price. The market for privacy-focused technology is still relatively niche, but it is growing as concerns about data security and surveillance increase. The device’s reliance on the Android ecosystem, while offering compatibility with a wide range of apps, also presents a potential challenge. Maintaining a truly de-Googled experience within the Android framework requires ongoing effort and vigilance.

Murena’s strategy of offering a complete ecosystem – including the operating system, devices, and secure storage solutions – could prove to be a differentiator. However, the company will need to effectively communicate the value proposition to consumers and build trust in its commitment to privacy. The launch of the Volla Tablet marks a significant expansion for Murena and a further test of the market’s appetite for privacy-centric technology.