Asus outdid itself with the new Google Nexus 7$229.99 at Sears.com, which is leaps and bounds ahead of its still-very-good predecessor. The 7-inch tablet is faster, available in higher capacity versions, and packs a gorgeous, much higher-resolution screen that exceeds 1080p (1,920 by 1,200 pixels). It's also slimmer and more attractive than the previous Nexus 7. Naturally, this means you have to get some new accessories.
Bluetooth accessories and Android apps remain pretty universal, so you can keep your old apps (and get any new ones that are optimized for Android 4.3), keyboards, speakers, and headphones. Cases are a bit trickier, and that's where you might run into some problems when ordering online. When shopping for a new case or cover, look for one that says it's for the "New Nexus 7" or the "2013 Nexus 7." If you get a case made for the first Nexus 7, it won't fit on your new tablet.
CasesThe Nexus 7 doesn't have as many cases as the fashion plate iPad, but there are still plenty of choices for you to protect and accessorize your tablet. Computer Shopper's list of the top 10 cases for the new Nexus 7 run the gamut from simple plastic sleeves to leather-bound folios to Apple Smart Cover-like foldable stands. Highlights include the MoKo Ultra-Slim Lightweight Smart Shell Stand Case (which looks like something made for the iPad), the DODOcase Folio for Nexus 7 (which looks like something made for the cast of Mad Men), and the Waterfield City Slicker Tablet Case (which looks like something made for that guy you keep seeing at Starbucks). Pick your case or cover based on the sort of protection, style, and functionality you want for your tablet.
AppsThe Nexus 7 runs stock Android 4.3, which means it can handle nearly any Android app you can throw at it. Because the Google Play Store is a massive library of software for your tablet, it's hard to pick which apps are optimized for tablets, which apps were recently updated, and which apps are actually good. Our list of The Best Android Apps can help you narrow down your choices, even if there are still a lot from which to pick. Be sure to update all of your Google-specific features and apps (like Google Drive, Google Now, and Google Keep) to make sure all of your personal information and media is available on your tablet instantly.
Speakers and HeadphonesBecause it uses Bluetooth, the Nexus 7 works with plenty of wireless audio products, including speakers like the Bose SoundLink Mini£169.95 at Amazon and earphones like thePlantronics BackBeat Go 2$79.99 at Amazon. Besides those two Editors' Choice picks, our lists of the best wireless speakers and best wireless headphones include plenty of other solid choices.
Other AccessoriesWith all of the obvious accessories out of the way, there are two more you can pick up that can add a lot of functionailty to your Nexus 7. The Google Chromecast$35.00 at Amazonlets you stream online media from your Nexus 7 to your HDTV, and while it's currently limited in what it supports, its $35 price tag is just right for adding some useful functionality to your tablet. Finally, the Logitech K810 Bluetooth Illuminated Keyboard$94.99 at Delllets you use your tablet like a mini-notebook.
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