Tablet war takes a turn in 2012; Acer, Lenovo to switch to Windows 8

So far the tablet war has largely been dominated by Google and Apple. However, it seems like 2012 is going to see a new entrant in the arena. Enter Windows 8. As reported by Digitimes, Acer and Lenovo are all set to get into Windows 8 mode with the launch of their new tablet PCs. Powered by Intel’s Clover Trail processor, these tablets may launch in the third quarter of 2012, if sources from their supply chain are to be believed.

Intel’s new Medfield processor is launching as well, and that will be for Android tablets and smartphones. However, as we reported earlier, power management seems to be one of the concerns that manufacturers are currently having. As a result, they’re relying on Intel’s Clover Trail platform and are positive that Wintel-based tablets have an extremely strong possibility to emerge and make a substantial impact this year.

What does this mean? Well, as always, plenty of options for the consumer to choose from, which means it’s a win-win situation for us, at least. But, will Windows 8 have enough power to topple (or even challenge) the current leaders. For technology’s sake, let’s hope it does!