Although there is a debate to be had about AT&T and their network, it goes without much challenge that they sure know how to have exclusive items for long periods of time before other companies like Verizon and Sprint. The company, who famously had the iPhone for 4 years prior to anybody else, also holds to the key to the upcoming PlayStation Vita, Kindle 3G, and now Sony’s S2 Android Honeycomb tablet. As a refresher, the S2 tablet, which is still a code name and will change, much like the NGP is now called the PS Vita, is Sony’s dual 5.5-inch clamshell designed tablet. This HSPA+ 4G tablet (yes, it’s been confirmed) will be offer WiFi as well though we imagine there might be some kind of potential deal with AT&T as an exclusive partner. However, beyond the exclusivity agreement, which fails to mention the S1, pointing to a potential multi-carrier support, we still don’t have an official release date or price.

On a personal note, with my iPhone 4, iPad and my plans to pick up a 3G PS Vita, I do hope there eventually are deals for people who have multiple devices that run on one network, in this case AT&T for me.

Hit the jump for an exciting-as-ever press release from Sony.

 AT&T to Connect “Sony Tablet” S2 on Nation’s Fastest Mobile Broadband Network

DALLAS, July 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — AT&T* today announced that AT&T will be the exclusive U.S. mobile broadband provider for the “Sony Tablet” S2 (codename), a dual screen, multi-functional tablet ideal for mobile communication and entertainment, that Sony Corporation plans to launch later this year.

“We’re pleased to be working with AT&T on yet another unique mobile device,” said Mike Lucas, senior vice president of Networked Technology and Services Division at Sony Electronics. “AT&T provides the speed and coverage that are integral to the different features and functions of our tablet. We value our relationship as they share our commitment to growing the ‘Sony Tablet’ S2 and the tablet market overall.”

The “Sony Tablet” S2 will be 4G** capable and Wi-Fi compatible. With a qualifying data plan, users of the “Sony Tablet” S2 will have access to AT&T’s mobile broadband network and unlimited access to AT&T’s more than 20,000 hot spots nationwide. With both 4G and Wi-Fi, users can browse the Internet, access digital content including videos, games, and check e-mail, while on the go, nearly anytime.

“With its unprecedented, completely portable form factor, the ‘Sony Tablet’ S2 offers tablet enthusiasts a convenient and unique entertainment experience,” said David Haight, vice president of business development, AT&T emerging devices. “Users will be treated to exceptional graphics and the touch-screen capabilities will enable a fast and efficient website experience.”

AT&T will offer monthly data plans for the “Sony Tablet” S2. Distribution and pricing will be announced at launch.

For more information on AT&T, please visit www.att.com.

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

**4G speeds delivered by HSPA+ with enhanced backhaul. Available in limited areas. Availability increasing with ongoing backhaul deployment. Requires 4G compatible device. Learn more at att.com/network.

***Access includes AT&T Wi-Fi Basic. Wi-Fi enabled device required. Other restrictions apply. See www.attwifi.com for details and locations.