Aakash 3 to cost Rs 2,500

Having supplied 1 lakh units of Aakash tablets to IIT Bombay for Rs 2,263, Datawind is ready to provide the next version of the device at a tentative price of Rs 2,500.

"As per my information, the committee on Aakash tablets is looking at higher version of the device for Rs 2,500 a piece and we are ready to match the price on order for every 10 lakh units," Datawind CEO Suneet Singh Tuli.
It is learnt that Datawind has recommended higher specifications for the next version of Aakash tablets. The device will also include a SIM slot and enable users to make calls.

Tuli also mentioned that the company will manufacture LCD panels in India for the tablets to comply to the Preferential Market Access policy norms which in general has been opposed by foreign companies. The policy mandates government to procure electronic products, including tablet PCs, which should have at least 30 per cent components made locally. Datawind will set up a LCD touchscreen unit in Amritsar.