So my mom had to have a tablet. I did the research, and for the money ($200 USD) this seems like the best value. Its now $180 ($20 cheaper). But you may also want to consider a $200 Chromebook (laptop). UPDATE: I recently purchased this tablet for $150 - a better option than the Auraslate.
With the Auraslate, you will probably feel left out in the cold if you have questions about the unit. Sure, they have a user forum - but it doesnt look like anyone responds.
I immediately had a problem with them unit, and thought it was defective. When I got it, I turned it on, tried to connect it to the wifi, and it went black. It was showing over 90% battery when it went black and wouldnt reboot. I tried hitting the power button, charging it, etc. But nothing seemed to work until I stuck a paperclip point into the reset button hole. I then hit the power button and it immediately powered up.
It comes with many applications installed, including a couple of handy marketplaces to be able to download apps. I did put some apps and music on the device that I thought would be handy: TuneIn Radio Pro, mxplayer, Weather HD, netflix, vimeo, stitcher, sketchbook, skype, and more. I also recommend a case (my mom just used an old cosmetics vinyl bag), a scratch protection coating, and a 16gb SD card.
My main issue with the device is that I cannot view flash objects on the device. Ive tried several installs - but nothing seems to work. Ive done some research on the unit -n the auraslate 1026 is similar to Digma iDx10. So that may help in some ways. The links below may help:
INSTALLING FLASH
Android 4.0 flash player v11.1.115.20
>> http://www.transformerforums.com/forum/guides-tips-tricks/23948-how-get-best-browser-experience-your-tablet.html
>> http://www.careace.net/2012/10/03/how-to-manually-install-flash-on-your-samsung-android-device/
Flash versions: http://helpx.adobe.com/flash-player/kb/archived-flash-player-versions.htmllatest mozilla browser w/flash build (OCT 28 2012)
>> http://support.mozilla.org/en-US/questions/926559
install flash on 4.1 jellybean
>> http://www.phonearena.com/news/How-to-install-Adobe-Flash-on-Android-4.1-Jelly-Bean_id32682
Other browsers to consider: dolphin, chrome, opera
MISC
cyanogenmod 10 auraslate clockwork mod
>> http://www.addictivetips.com/mobile/what-is-clockworkmod-recovery-and-how-to-use-it-on-android-complete-guide/
Other marketplaces:
>> http://www.netalien.biz/2012/04/top-ten-android-apk-file-download.html
>> http://www.gizchina.com/2012/08/14/20-ways-to-get-free-android-apps-downloads/pandaapp
>> http://download.pandaapp.com/android-app/pandaapp-for-android1.3-id10895.html
>> http://www.addictivetips.com/mobile/download-fireplace-market-apk-bazaar-cydia-like-alternative-android-app-store/
>> http://openappmkt.com/