The Nexus 7 has arguably been one of the best Android tablets to come out in recent times. And with newer tablets coming out practically every other week, to suit all budgets, Google has decided to up its game on the app development scene for tablets running Android.

If you’ve owned or own an Android slate, chances are that you’ve had your share of disappointment with the variety and quality of tablet-specific apps that are available. This has been going on for some time, with little to no traction seen in this space. With increasing competition from Amazon’s Kindle, Apple’s iPad, and with the imminent launch of Windows 8 tabs, Google has launched a new initiative that should clear the way for more quality apps designed for larger screens.

Earlier today, Google released a comprehensive set of guidelines for developers in the form of its ‘Tablet App Quality Checklist‘, which covers, in  ten easy steps, the key things that developers need to factor in order to create quality apps for tablets. These include aspects like optimizing the app for a larger display, using the extra screen real estate on the tablet to your advantage and adjustment of fonts and widgets in line with the larger display,

In addition to the checklist, Google would be also be offering extensive support to developers via tablet development tips on the Android Developers Google+ page, and active support topics. Well, better late than never, given the ever-increasing threat from the existing as well as upcoming competition, it’s about time.

That said, it is definitely a positive sign for Android tablet users, and they can expect to see, and use, more quality apps soon. My Xoom has been in hibernation for some time now, and I guess it’s time to take it for a spin again.