Velocity Cruz Tablets

You may be considering getting your mother or wife a tablet for Mother’s day. You may be wondering if she would be able to use it easily – or if she would want to use it at all. Here are some actual reviews from a person who gave a $99 Velocity Micro Tablet to their mom:

So Easy, an 84-Year Old Can Use It!

“I have the Velocity Cruz T105 and I absolutely LOVE it!! The highest praise that I can give to this tablet is that my 84-YEAR OLD MOTHER asked me to get her one, after she saw me using it!!

The tablet is THAT easy to use–that my totally computer-illiterate mother can use it with ease and she also loves it! I merely “set it up for her” by bookmarking favorite websites. Now, all she has to do is get on the Internet, hit the middle button, (which is the mode key) touch the “bookmarks” button and tap on her reading choice! She reads newspapers, online magazines and her favorite, Dr. Oz!! She has also learned to use the email function and enjoys how easy that also is.

I often catch mom putting the tablet’s music function on softly in the background while she is doing other things around the house–so she uses it as if it were a small radio!! (I have downloaded all her favorite songs from the 40s to today–it holds a ton!) I was able to arrange the music selections into playlists. Now, all that either of us has to do is press “playlists” and all the songs associated with that list come up and play! It’s that easy!

The photo function of the tablets is also exceptional. Mother LOVES to show off photos of her grandchildren and great-granchildren! My sister in California often sends her little video clips (in AVI format) so mom can see what’s going on in California!

Mother’s favorite function of all, is the GAMES!! YUP!! My 84-year old mother is now hooked on video games!! LOL! She enjoys solitaire and word-search puzzles! She says it helps her to relax! I am actually amazed (and PLEASED!) at how much she really loves this tablet and how easy it is for her to use! BTW–these games are FREE downloads from the Amazon Apps store–which the Cruz tablet is able to connect to quite easily.

If an 84-year lady who never used a computer in her life can enjoy this tablet, certainly YOU can too!! BTW, I am 53 and I also enjoy it!”

Velocity Micro T301 Cruz 7-Inch Android 2.0 Tablet (Black)

A remarkably affordable, remarkably feature rich tablet, this Velocity Micro Cruz tablet is packed with refined design and enough features to go head to head with any other tablet PC on the market. Play games and video, read books, download apps, and browse the web, all from this revolutionary device! Capacitive touch screen and content via Amazon Kindle app for an amazing user experience. Backed by Velocity Micro’s expert US-based support.

Here’s what one reviewer had to say, “if you want a $250 color e-reader that has a stable OS, long battery life, and a seven inch 800×600 touchscreen you will be pleased. You will be more pleased with the capability to surf the internet, check e-mail and load simple apps. The Cruz comes preloaded with the Kindle reader and most other e-readers can be downloaded from freewarelovers.com. The screen size, the rubber back, touch screen, wifi, and all day battery life make this an excellent e-reader that compares well with the Nook color. The new version of the Android Kindle app (which can be downloaded from freewarelovers.com) also allows you to download magazines in color.”

Another review had this to say, “Although I primarily use my Cruz Tablet as an ebook reader, it is actually a multimedia device with internet capabilities. This is a stark difference to conventional ebook readers, who usually tack on features like MP3 playability almost as an afterthought. The Android operating system effectively and elegantly addresses six key features: ebooks, internet, music, movies, pictures, and games and apps.”

CNET said, “Velocity Micro might just be the biggest tablet manufacturer you’ve never heard of. Its products have been found in Wal-Mart, Best Buy, Target, Costco, and Best Buy, and have always positioned them as a low-cost tablet option.”

One comment on the article said, “I am very pleased with my T301…I now have apps installed on my T301 for accessing a total of 8 different app stores (Cruz, Amazon, Android Pit, Handango, Mobihand, GetJar, SlidMe and Soc.io Mall), plus there’s also Freeware Lovers, which doesn’t have an app. Not having the official marketplace is not that big a deal once you find all the others.”

The Velocity Micro tablets are also available at Amazon, but sometimes determining which tablet to buy and what accessories for Velocity tablets is hard to find on Amazon, which is why we created this site to help people find which tablet they need and what accessories are available for each tablet.

We also have a Facebook Page for Velocity Tablets where one person recently commented that “[Velocity Micro Tablets are] my favorite tablets.” Since January, all Velocity Micro tablets have Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich).

A lot of people have been asking? “Can I load netflix to my Velocity Cruz R100?”

The short answer is no, but you might try updating the firmware or rooting the Cruz (root at your own risk).

Here are the reviews from people who have tried installing Netflix from the Amazon Appstore:

Fails to install on Velocity Cruz T301 with Android 2.2 – November 28, 2011

“Amazon reports that this device works with my tablet, which is linked to my Amazon account. But the installation process fails. My tablet is a Velocity Cruz T301 with Android 2.2. Note that this is not the only app that fails to install in the T301. About 1/2 of the apps I download from Amazon fail to install, and I have read that other users have not been able to install Netflix on the T301. So this is a limitation on the T301. But would be nice if Amazon accurately identified that the app does not install on the T301, or that it is not tested.”

Not installable – December 4, 2011

“Downloads fine from Amazon but will not install on Cruz T301 running android 2.2.1…tried reinstalling a few times but got no where.”

Will not install – November 19, 2011

“I have a Cruz PC tablet and I cant get the app to install. I cant think of any reason why. Does it wok on tablets other than Amazon Fire?”

Will the R101 stream video from Netflix? March 26, 2011

“I attempted to access my Netflix from the cruz reader, it had two issues. The’re isn’t enough RAM to use Netflix, and also they have specific browser requirements, that the cruz reader doesn’t have. From what I’ve been reading online you need a high powered tablet like the ipad to have netflix working, if you’re mainly looking for a book reader with a little extra you probably won’t be able to find something that can power Netflix.”

If you’re locked out of your Cruz tablet or reader and don’t remember the passcode, you may be facing a factory reset to get back access to your device.

A “factory reset” is a hard reset and is an extremely serious process, because performing a hard reset will delete all the data from your device and return it to the original factory settings it had when it was purchased. In general, only the manufacturer of your device will ever suggest performing a hard reset, and only when all other attempts have failed.

If you’ve lost access to the device, this thread will give you instructions:

1. Power down your reader and remove the microSD card.
2. Insert the microSD card into your PC and copy any files off of it that you want to save.
3. Format the microSD to delete all of the files off of it.
4. Download the updated firmware onto the microSD card.
5. With the reader still powered down, insert the microSD card and press and hold volume up while also holding down the power button.
6. Keep these buttons pressed until it goes through the CRUZ boot screen and you see the Android and a progress meter.
7. You can let go of the buttons once you see the progress meter.

This should put the reader back to factory defaults for that firmware version. Restore any files and apps as needed.

If you have access, this is how you do a factory reset from the device:

From the Home screen > Menu > System > Privacy > Factory data reset > Reset Device > Erase everything

The device will shut down and perform the software reset to factory settings, including erasing the internal flash storage. Upon restart, the device will require you to again go through the Cruz Setup Wizard to configure your Wi-Fi and Email, just as you did just after purchase.

Note: This process does not delete the microSD card contents, but does delete the internal flash storage.

Note: This article does not apply to the R100 series.

Velocity Micro Cruz T410 Designer Attaché PADfolio Case by RENÉE MICHELLE

This Velocity Micro Cruz T410 carrying case provides sleek and stylish protection and portability for your tablet! The smooth, ebony exterior with chrome accents makes this Velocity Micro Cruz T410 carrying case the perfect accessory, whether you’re at home, at work, or on-the-go! Comfortable handles slide up to carry your case as a briefcase, or down to hold in your arms or easily slide into your bag or briefcase, making this case conveniently portable!

The PADfolio’s Paris-inspired design and innovative features makes for a functional and fashionable tablet carrying case. Inside are several storage options to easily carry and store your tablet’s accessories, important paperwork, and other supplies you may need. Store important documents and paperwork in the document slot until they are ready for use. An interior pouch is great for holding glasses, pens and pencils, lip gloss and other small items you may need! The full zip-around enclosure provides full protection to your tablet and other belongings while giving you quick and easy access to them!

Detachable tablet holder easily removes from the folio case for stand-alone protection. The shock-absorbing padded interior cushions and protects your tablet from bumps and drops. Extra screen padding and scratch-resistant interior keeps your tablet’s surface well-protected and scratch-free!

The PADfolio’s sleek and stylish design provides your tablet with outstanding protection without cramping your style! This is the perfect accessory for any professional, whether you’re going out with the girls, doing a presentation for work, or hanging out at the park!

USA Gear FlexSleeve Protective Neoprene Case for Velocity Micro Cruz T410

The high-density neoprene material is designed to comfortably store your Cruz T410 tablet. It’s conforming design stretches to your tablet’s shape and provides protection from dings and scratches.

Simply stretch the sides over your tablet and the form fitting neoprene will conform to your tablet’s sleek shape. The flap style fold over top makes it easy to access your tablet and keeps it secure at all times.

There is a exterior zippered pocket for holding small accessories such as microSD cards, cables and more. The smooth scratch resistant inner lining keeps your tablet’s finish and screen looking brand new. The built-in handle on the back makes it extremely portable and easy to carry with you.

Features

• Form-fitting neoprene material stretches snugly around your Velocity Micro Cruz T410 tablet
• Suede internal lining and durable neoprene to cushion and provide protection from bumps and scratches
• Zippered External Pocket stores your USB power adapter and other netbook accessories
• Made from High-Density neoprene with durable stitching and edging
• Includes USA GEAR 3 YEAR Warranty and 4 in 1 SD Card Reader

Velocity Micro Cruz Tablet T410 – 10-Inch Android Tablet with Flash

A larger screen without the price tag, the 10” Velocity Micro Cruz T410 is perfect for multimedia lovers and fans of Android in search of a more robust experience without sacrificing mobility. Capacitive touch screen, front facing camera, Android 2.3, 802.11n wifi, 1GHz Cortex A8 processor, a premium software suite, and content via the Amazon Kindle for Android and Amazon Appstore for Android create an amazing feature set at a remarkable value. A fully licensed version of Adobe Flash Player 10.3 brings the best of the web right in the palm of your hand. Backed by Velocity Micro’s expert US-based support.

Cruz is the premier brand of Android based tablets from the foremost builder of finely crafted desktops in North America, Velocity Micro. All Cruz products are built with the same attention to detail and expert craftsmanship that have made Velocity Micro famous amongst PC enthusiasts for years. Since our first review in 2003, no other PC builder has been able to match Velocity Micro in value, performance, and quality. Those are the ideals that Velocity Micro was founded on. That is the premium legacy that comes with the Cruz.

Features

• 10″ capacitive screen provides more screen area for a more complete tablet experience
• Download from a library of thousands of apps via Amazon Appstore, preinstalled
• Flash enabled, pre-installed
• Quick Office Full version and Angry Birds preinstalled
• Front facing camera for video conferencing

Reviews

“I didn’t expect the internet browser to be as good as it is. You can choose whether to see the full version of your favorite website or the mobile version (a choice I appreciate). You can zoom in and out with hand gestures (you’ve seen the “pinching” gestures in commercials I’m sure). Sites load much quicker than I expected, even sites that are image heavy. I also didn’t expect the device to come already equipped with a fully featured mobile office suite. It comes with QuickOffice, which looks like it’s going to be a great program. It contains a word processor, spreadsheet program, presentation program, and .pdf reader. This isn’t a trial version either; it’s the complete program, ready to use straight out of the box.”

“The Kindle app is nice. You can see all of the covers in full color – that’s something I appreciate. I like the larger screen, as well, though it’s not as easy on the eyes as an actual Kindle and you are going to have a lot of glare in bright light or out in the sun. I was a bit disappointed that the app doesn’t support the comics released alongside the Kindle Fire. Other than that, I was pleased with how the app worked on the device.”

“It’s really surprising to me the wide variety of games that are available for the device. The Amazon App Store has games for every taste, everything from simple word games to complex and very pretty RPGs. A lot of these games are free, by the way. My favorite thing is Live Wallpaper. This is my first Android device, so I had no idea how cool this was. The T410 comes with several animated wallpapers that can be set as a background, and a ton available for download (many for free). Yin the Black Cat and his dancing fireflies currently decorate my home screen (I scored the free version).”

“I can now understand the draw of a tablet. It’s great for quick email checks, Facebooking, and Twitter, without having to wait for a laptop to start. It’s lighter and easier to cart around, making it great for trips, especially with apps like Netflix and Kindle to keep you entertained during a long flight or even on your morning commute to the office.”

The Cruz Accessory Store has everything you’ll need to get the most out of your Cruz device. Whether you’re looking for protective cases, SD cards, extra batteries, or replacement parts, we’ve got you covered. Get the most out of your Cruz, by making sure your Cruz Tablet is fully charged and ready to use.

AC Wall Adapter Charger for the T410 and T408 Cruz Tablets

While the Amazon Kindle uses micro-B USB, I can’t seem to find what type of USB port the Cruz T408 and T410 uses, but from the picture it looks more like a mini-B USB port. What is clear is that the Cruz T408 and T410 take 5.0 volts DC at 2.0 amps.

However, I have found evidence that the T103 has a mini-B USB port, but it and the T301 both charge off a separate power adapter, not the USB. The T408 charges off of the USB port, but again, although all signs point to it using a mini-B USB port, I had trouble finding a wall AC charger besides the one sold by Velocity Micro.

BookArmor Shield Case Custom Fit for the Velocity Micro Cruz Tablet T408

Introducing the redesigned BookArmor Shield Case Custom Fit for your Velocity Micro Cruz Tablet T408. This Shield line of BookArmor cases provides a precise fit for your Cruz tablet. It’s quick and easy to install or remove your device, and there’s nothing that attaches to the device.

This Cruz case is compact, zips securely, and protects both the screen and the controls. The outside has thick layers of molded plastic, wrapped it in a washable fabric, and has a heavy duty zipper to keep out the dirt and dust.

The inside is supported by foam and secured by rubber fittings, your Cruz tablet floats between thick aluminum plates. With nothing touching the screen, there are no pressure points to cause harm. Your device is fully functional without removing it from the case. Yet with a simple twist, the device is free.

A hard shell provides excellent device protection without adding excessive bulkiness. Your Cruz Tablet is fully functional (except for rear facing cameras) without removing it from the case and is free-floating inside the case, preventing pressure points. A washable fabric exterior with a sturdy zipper provides a soft, comfortable feel for your Cruz case in your hands. It’s quick and simple to insert or extract your Cruz tablet from the case with nothing to stick on your device and no elastic to stretch or break.