Google is gearing up to launch a second-generation Nexus 7 this July, which will cost slightly more than its predecessor at $229, according to supply chain sources in Taiwan. The search giant has supposedly upped its price tag slightly in an effort to avoid competing directly against entry-level Android tablet from other manufacturers.

Samsung is said to be planning a 12.2-inch variant of its Galaxy Note tablet for the third quarter of 2013 in an effort to compete with the rumored “iPad maxi.” The Korean electronics giant reportedly wants to be first to produce a larger slate.

EE has today announced that its 4G network is now available in another 12 towns across the United Kingdom, bringing the total number of 4G connected towns and cities to 62 in just six months following its launch. That’s 50% of the U.K. now covered by 4G, and EE is aiming to increase that to 70% by the end of the year.

Microsoft is planning a new lineup of Surface tablets that includes a 7-inch model designed to compete with Apple’s iPad mini and Google’s Nexus 7, The Wall Street Journal reports. The device will enter mass production later this year, according to people familiar with Microsoft’s plans, but it’s unclear when the company will bring the new slate to market.

Samsung has today confirmed that the new Galaxy Note 8.0 will launch in the United States on April 11, priced at $399. The device will be available in-stores and online from a number of retailers, including Amazon, Best Buy, Newegg, Staples, and TigerDirect.com.