Having already launched its pre-orders ahead of the official Nexus 7 announcement, Best Buy is keeping up the habit of preempting Google by making the new Android slate available early. Announced for a July 30th launch in the US, the 2013 Nexus 7 is actually shipping out to Best Buy pre-order customers today and we've confirmed with the retailer's Union Square store that there's stock available if you want to buy one in person as well.
The newly updated Nexus 7 adds a 5-megapixel rear camera and an impressively dense 1920 x 1200 display to the successful formula that Google and Asus introduced last year with the original 7-inch tablet. The entry price is a little higher, starting at $229, but other upgrades like a faster processor, a doubling of onboard RAM, and an all around thinner and more elegant design would appear to justify the premium.
Available in US stores today
Update: We've been able to confirm that Walmart and GameStop also have early stock of the Nexus 7, available to buy today. Amazon's Nexus 7 listings also offer delivery by Monday, provided you opt for one-day shipping. Thanks, Positron!
Most of the rest of Google's retail partners, namely B&H, RadioShack, OfficeMax, and Staples, appear to be adhering to the originally advertised launch date of July 30th — our enquiries with them were all met with negative responses.
Matt Brian and Chris Welch contributed to this report.