Android and Video Codecs

I need to understand how codecs and Android OS work. Specifically, if I'm looking at tablets - how can I spec one out to get one that will support video h.264 for the purpose of streaming video (video chat but without the voice)? I just have some questions and gaps in my knowledge and was hoping to find an expert here willing to talk to me. I would be willing to pay for the information - if you would talk to me via messenger (yahoo, gmail, msn). I don't have a lot of money to offer because I've been unemployed for 1.5 years but I really understand your knowledge is valuable. My background is 17-18 years with PC's first in hardware and DOS and progressing up to Windows XP. I've done a small amount of programming, databases, networking and web development - so I have a somewhat rounded background. I just don't know where to start on this project I'm trying to learn and would rather sit at the knees of a guru and ask a few questions to get started in the right direction. Thanks!