Sony tablets aim to stand out from the crowd

Sony Corp. on Wednesday revealed its first two tablet computers, with some features that aim to set them apart from the herd of iPad competitors.

The Tablet S, which is about the size of an iPad, can double as a universal remote control. The tablet is wedge-shaped, with one side thicker than the other. The shape mimics that of a magazine that's been folded over.

The Tablet P is small enough to fit in a purse and opens like a book to reveal two screens. When used for e-book reading, it can be held vertically and show one page on each screen. When composing email, the upper screen can show the message while the lower one shows a keyboard.

The Tablet P will be compatible with AT&T's cellular broadband network. It will go sale later this year at a price yet to be determined.

Sony said the Tablet S is going on sale immediately for $499 or $599, depending on how much memory is included.

The tablets tie into other Sony properties. For instance, they will be able to run games created for the original PlayStation and the PlayStation Portable. They'll also have apps that connect to Sony's Music Unlimited and Video Unlimited content stores, formerly known as Qriocity.

Other electronics companies are trying to differentiate their tablets from the iPad as well. On Tuesday, Lenovo Corp. launched a "business-oriented" tablet that comes with a stylus.