Asus outdid itself with the new Google Nexus 7, which is leaps and bounds
ahead of its still-very-good predecessor. The 7-inch tablet is faster, available
in higher capacity versions, and packs a gorgeous, much higher-resolution screen
that exceeds 1080p (1,920 by 1,200 pixels). It's also slimmer and more
attractive than the previous Nexus 7. Naturally, this means you have to get some
new accessories.
Bluetooth accessories and Android apps remain pretty universal, so you can
keep your old apps (and get any new ones that are optimized for Android 4.3),
keyboards, speakers, and headphones. Cases are a bit trickier, and that's where
you might run into some problems when ordering online. When shopping for a new
case or cover, look for one that says it's for the "New Nexus 7" or the "2013
Nexus 7." If you get a case made for the first Nexus 7, it won't fit on your new
tablet.
Cases
The Nexus 7 doesn't have as many cases as the fashion plate iPad, but there
are still plenty of choices for you to protect and accessorize your tablet.
Computer Shopper's list of the top 10 cases for the new Nexus 7 run the gamut
from simple plastic sleeves to leather-bound folios to Apple Smart Cover-like
foldable stands. Highlights include the MoKo Ultra-Slim Lightweight Smart Shell
Stand Case (which looks like something made for the iPad), the DODOcase Folio
for Nexus 7 (which looks like something made for the cast of Mad Men), and the
Waterfield City Slicker Tablet Case (which looks like something made for that
guy you keep seeing at Starbucks). Pick your case or cover based on the sort of
protection, style, and functionality you want for your tablet.
Apps
The Nexus 7 runs stock Android 4.3, which means it can handle nearly any
Android app you can throw at it. Because the Google Play Store is a massive
library of software for your tablet, it's hard to pick which apps are optimized
for tablets, which apps were recently updated, and which apps are actually good.
Our list of The Best Android Apps can help you narrow down your choices, even if
there are still a lot from which to pick. Be sure to update all of your
Google-specific features and apps (like Google Drive, Google Now, and Google
Keep) to make sure all of your personal information and media is available on
your tablet instantly.
Speakers and Headphones
Because it uses Bluetooth, the Nexus 7 works with plenty of wireless audio
products, including speakers like the Bose SoundLink Mini and earphones like the
Plantronics BackBeat Go 2. Besides those two Editors' Choice picks, our lists of
the best wireless speakers and best wireless headphones include plenty of other
solid choices.
Other Accessories
With all of the obvious accessories out of the way, there are two more you
can pick up that can add a lot of functionailty to your Nexus 7. The Google
Chromecast lets you stream online media from your Nexus 7 to your HDTV, and
while it's currently limited in what it supports, its $35 price tag is just
right for adding some useful functionality to your tablet. Finally, theLogitech
K810 Bluetooth Illuminated Keyboard lets you use your tablet like a
mini-notebook.
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