No USB storage for Google's Nexus 7 tablet

Now that the hype of Google’s I/O event is fading, more details are emerging about what Google’s Nexus 7 tablet can and can’t do. Whether these limitations are designed to keep other Android Tablet manufacturers happy, or if they are purely down to cost concerns aren’t clear.

We already knew that the tablet lacked expandable storage through SD or Micro SD, but Anandtech has reported that the inbuilt micro USB port does not support USB storage. It has, however, been able to connect a keyboard and mouse, and there were numerous reports from the I/O event that it supports micro-USB to gigabit ethernet adapters.

Of course, there are a growing number of wireless storage devices designed for tablets, and pretty much every new router and network hard drive comes with a corresponding App nowadays for easy access. But it does highlight the limitations of the Nexus 7, while also making the $299 16GB model look that much more attractive.

The Nexus 7 is currently available for preorder on Google’s Play site. Shipping is estimated at 2-3 weeks, and we’ll have a review as soon as tablets land.