Google is getting closer to releasing a version of the Android software meant for tablet computers, one that will include a fresh look and updated web browser and keyboard.

The online search leader said it has released a preview version of the software development kit for Honeycomb, also known as Android 3.0, which is for developers to test out their applications on the software and learn about its new capabilities.

In a post on Google’s Android Developers blog, Xavier Ducrohet, the Android SDK tech lead, said a final version of the kit will be available “in the weeks ahead”, which will enable developers to publish Honeycomb applications to Google’s Android Market app store.

At the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas last month, companies including Motorola Mobility and AsusTek Computer showed off tablet computers that will run Honeycomb and plenty are expected in the coming months as companies try to compete with the iPad.

Google outlined a variety of Honeycomb’s features on its Android Developers site, many of which were shown in presentations at CES.

They will include a “system bar” built into the bottom of the screen; it shows notifications and recently used apps and can be used to navigate the tablet. Honeycomb will also have a redesigned on-screen keyboard to make it easier and quicker to type on a tablet’s larger screen. Keys will still be arranged using the standard QWERTY system.

Tablets that use Honeycomb will also let users connect a full keyboard through a USB port – something the iPad cannot do – or wirelessly via Bluetooth.

Google said an updated web browser will allow the use of tabs for browsing, so users will not have to open individual browser windows for each web page – this is a standard feature on desktop web browsers these days.

There will be an updated version of YouTube for Honeycomb as well, which includes a 3D-like wall for browsing videos, and the Android camera software will be updated, too, to make it quicker for users to control exposure, focus, flash, zoom and other options on a tablet’s larger screen.

Showing off Honeycomb on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Google CEO Eric Schmidt said it will also include a feature that can create live translations of conversations. Mr Schmidt will be stepping down from his post in April to become Google’s executive chairman.

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