Asus showed off a version of the Eee Pad Transformer running Android 3.0 at CeBIT in Germany yesterday. When the company showed off the tablet at CES in January, it was running an earlier version of Android with a custom user interface.
The tablet now features the Honeycomb web browser with support for tabs. There is also a new taskbar at the bottom of the screen, as well as new home screen widgets. The Eee Pad Transformer has a detachable keyboard. It also features a finger-friendly on-screen Honeycomb keyboard which is designed for tablets with 10 inch displays.
The Asus Eee Pad Transformer has a 10.1 inch capacitive IPS touchscreen with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. It is powered by a 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 dual core processor. Other specifications include 1GB of RAM, up to 64GB of storage, Bluetooth, WiFi, optional 3G and GPS. It comes standard with a 24.4Whr battery and weighs about 1.5 pounds.
The Asus Eee Pad Transformer is expected to hit the market in April. No word on pricing at the moment.
MSI WIND U270 WITH AMD ZACATE PROCESSOR GETS OFFICIAL
MSI has officially introduced its Wind U270 ultraportable notebook with AMD Zacate processor. The MSI Wind U270 has been doing the rounds since December 2010, but few details were available until now. Now that the company has released an official press release, we have the detailed specs.
The MSI Wind U270 has a 12.1 inch display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. It is powered by a 1.6GHz AMD Zacate E-350 dual core processor with AMD Radeon HD 6310 graphics. The notebook supports up to 8GB of DDR3 memory and up to 320GB of hard drive space. Other specifications include 720p webcam, 2 USB 2.0 ports, 1 USB 3.0 port, WiFi 802.11b/g/n, Bluetooth 2.1 and HDMI output. Both 3-cell and 6-cell battery options are available.
The MSI Wind U270 runs Windows 7 Home Premium. Still no word on pricing or availability.
The MSI Wind U270 has a 12.1 inch display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. It is powered by a 1.6GHz AMD Zacate E-350 dual core processor with AMD Radeon HD 6310 graphics. The notebook supports up to 8GB of DDR3 memory and up to 320GB of hard drive space. Other specifications include 720p webcam, 2 USB 2.0 ports, 1 USB 3.0 port, WiFi 802.11b/g/n, Bluetooth 2.1 and HDMI output. Both 3-cell and 6-cell battery options are available.
The MSI Wind U270 runs Windows 7 Home Premium. Still no word on pricing or availability.
CLOSER LOOK AT THE HP ELITEBOOK 8560P
The HP EliteBook 8560p is a 15.6 inch rugged business notebook featuring Intel's 2nd generation Core Sandy Bridge processors.
The EliteBook 8560p meets the MIL-STD 810G military-standards for drop, vibration, dust, humidity, altitude, and high temperature. It is available with processors ranging between the 2.1Ghz Intel Core i3-2310M and Intel Core i7-2820QM. The graphics option is AMD Radeon HD 6470M with 1GB of dedicated video RAM. The notebook supports up to 16GB of DDR3 memory, up to 750GB hard drive or a 128GB or 160GB SSD. There is also an upgrade bay that can house either an optical drive or a secondary hard drive.
The Elitebook 8560p has a 15.6 inch LED backlit anti-glare display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. Other specifications include optional 720p webcam, stereo speakers, spill resistant keyboard with numberpad and a large trackpad and a pointing stick in the middle of the keyboard.
The supported connectivity options include WiFi 802.11n, Bluetooth (optional) and Ethernet LAN. The Elitebook 8560p has 2 USB 3.0 ports, 2 USB 2.0 ports, an eSATA/USB combo port, an ExpressCard slot, DisplayPort, Smart card reader, FireWire, SD/MMC memory card slot, a docking connector and a secondary battery connector.
The HP EliteBook 8560p runs Windows 7 operating system. It’s expected to be available in the US on March 15 for a starting price of $1,099.
The EliteBook 8560p meets the MIL-STD 810G military-standards for drop, vibration, dust, humidity, altitude, and high temperature. It is available with processors ranging between the 2.1Ghz Intel Core i3-2310M and Intel Core i7-2820QM. The graphics option is AMD Radeon HD 6470M with 1GB of dedicated video RAM. The notebook supports up to 16GB of DDR3 memory, up to 750GB hard drive or a 128GB or 160GB SSD. There is also an upgrade bay that can house either an optical drive or a secondary hard drive.
The Elitebook 8560p has a 15.6 inch LED backlit anti-glare display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. Other specifications include optional 720p webcam, stereo speakers, spill resistant keyboard with numberpad and a large trackpad and a pointing stick in the middle of the keyboard.
The supported connectivity options include WiFi 802.11n, Bluetooth (optional) and Ethernet LAN. The Elitebook 8560p has 2 USB 3.0 ports, 2 USB 2.0 ports, an eSATA/USB combo port, an ExpressCard slot, DisplayPort, Smart card reader, FireWire, SD/MMC memory card slot, a docking connector and a secondary battery connector.
The HP EliteBook 8560p runs Windows 7 operating system. It’s expected to be available in the US on March 15 for a starting price of $1,099.
ARCHOS INTRODUCES BUDGET-FRIENDLY ARNOVA 8 AND 10 TABLETS
Archos has introduced two new budget tablets: the Archos Arnova 8 and the Archos Arnova 10. Neither is a power machine. They are, in fact, designed to be cheap tablets with decent capabilities. You can, for example, use them for surfing the web, watching videos or reading ebooks.
The Archos Arnova 10 currently has a 600MHz processor and a resistive touchscreen display. Archos will reportedly upgrade the tablet with a 1GHz ARM Cortex-A8 processor and a capacitive touchscreen display by April. That model will sell for $199 in the US. It will have a 10.1 inch display with a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels. It runs Android 2.1 and comes with 4GB or 8GB of storage. It will also support a range of video formats including H.264, MP4, MKV, MOV, WAV, MP3, FLAC, and OGG. The tablet also has a G-sensor, WiFi 802.11b/g, a USB 2.0 host port, speaker, mic, a microSD card slot and a front-facing VGA camera.
The Archos Arnova 8 has an 8 inch display with a resolution of 800 x 600 pixels. It will run about $150. Like the Arnovoa 10, this model too will get a 1GHz ARM-based processor and capacitive touchscreen display soon. It weighs about 1.1 pounds and has a microSD card slot, g-sensor and 4GB of storage. There is also a built-in mic and speakers.
The Archos Arnova 10 currently has a 600MHz processor and a resistive touchscreen display. Archos will reportedly upgrade the tablet with a 1GHz ARM Cortex-A8 processor and a capacitive touchscreen display by April. That model will sell for $199 in the US. It will have a 10.1 inch display with a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels. It runs Android 2.1 and comes with 4GB or 8GB of storage. It will also support a range of video formats including H.264, MP4, MKV, MOV, WAV, MP3, FLAC, and OGG. The tablet also has a G-sensor, WiFi 802.11b/g, a USB 2.0 host port, speaker, mic, a microSD card slot and a front-facing VGA camera.
The Archos Arnova 8 has an 8 inch display with a resolution of 800 x 600 pixels. It will run about $150. Like the Arnovoa 10, this model too will get a 1GHz ARM-based processor and capacitive touchscreen display soon. It weighs about 1.1 pounds and has a microSD card slot, g-sensor and 4GB of storage. There is also a built-in mic and speakers.
FUJITSU STYLISTIC Q550 WINDOWS TABLET TO SHIP FOR UNDER $800 THIS SPRING
Fujitsu has revealed the pricing details of its upcoming Stylistic Q550 Windows 7 tablet. The Fujitsu Stylistic Q550 has a 10.1 inch IPS display with wide viewing angles. It is powered by an Intel Oak Trail Atom processor. The tablet will run Windows 7 Professional.
Fujitsu is expected to start shipping the Stylistic Q550 this spring. It will have a starting price of less than $800. Not cheap, if you ask me. The company is also expected to show off the tablet at CeBIT in Germany next month.
The Fujitsu Stylistic Q550 is aimed at enterprise customers. It has many premium features that kind of justify its high price tag. For example, it has a fingerprint sensor, SmartCard reader, full disk encryption and Trusted Platform Module (optional). The tablet will also have usual features such as WiFi 802.11b/g/n, Bluetooth 3.0, optional 3G and GPS. The capacitive multitouch panel supports both finger and pressure-sensitive stylus input.
The Fujitsu Stylistic Q550 comes standard with 2GB of RAM, a USB 2.0 port, SD card slot, headphone jack, HDMI port and dock connector. It will have 2 or 4 cell user removable battery and 30GB or 62GB of SSD.
Fujitsu is expected to start shipping the Stylistic Q550 this spring. It will have a starting price of less than $800. Not cheap, if you ask me. The company is also expected to show off the tablet at CeBIT in Germany next month.
The Fujitsu Stylistic Q550 is aimed at enterprise customers. It has many premium features that kind of justify its high price tag. For example, it has a fingerprint sensor, SmartCard reader, full disk encryption and Trusted Platform Module (optional). The tablet will also have usual features such as WiFi 802.11b/g/n, Bluetooth 3.0, optional 3G and GPS. The capacitive multitouch panel supports both finger and pressure-sensitive stylus input.
The Fujitsu Stylistic Q550 comes standard with 2GB of RAM, a USB 2.0 port, SD card slot, headphone jack, HDMI port and dock connector. It will have 2 or 4 cell user removable battery and 30GB or 62GB of SSD.
MOTOROLA XOOM NOW AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE FROM VERIZON, NO CONTRACT REQUIRED TO UNLOCK WIFI
The Motorola Xoom Android tablet is now available for purchase from Verizon Wireless. Best Buy has been selling the tablet to pre-order customers since February 24th. Verizon is also charging $799 for a contract-free tablet.If you sign up for a 2 year data plan you will be able to pick it up for $599.
Meanwhile, Verizon has confirmed that customers who are willing to buy the tablet at full prize will no longer be required to register for a one-month data plan. It was earlier reported that paying for at least one month's data plan is required to unlock the tablet's WiFi functionality. Of course, if you are not interested in using 3G, there is really no point in buying the tablet at the moment by paying the contract-free price of $799, because Motorola has plans to offer a WiFi only version sometime soon. And that model is priced at $599.
In related news, Verizon will reportedly offer free upgrade to 4G in about 3 months. Customers will have to send in their tablets to get the upgrade, though.
Meanwhile, Verizon has confirmed that customers who are willing to buy the tablet at full prize will no longer be required to register for a one-month data plan. It was earlier reported that paying for at least one month's data plan is required to unlock the tablet's WiFi functionality. Of course, if you are not interested in using 3G, there is really no point in buying the tablet at the moment by paying the contract-free price of $799, because Motorola has plans to offer a WiFi only version sometime soon. And that model is priced at $599.
In related news, Verizon will reportedly offer free upgrade to 4G in about 3 months. Customers will have to send in their tablets to get the upgrade, though.
MSI WINDPAD 110W WITH AMD ONTARIO CHIP COMING
MSI has been showing off Windows based tablets for a while. While none of these machines are available in the market yet, one of them - the WindPad 100W - is now up for pre-order from Excaliber PC. It has an Intel Atom Z530 processor and Windows 7 operating system. It is priced at $649.
Now it looks like the WindPad 100W has a sibling called the WindPad 110W. This model will have an AMD Fusion processor. Digitimes report that MSI will show off the tablet at the CeBIT trade show in Germany next month.
The MSI WindPad 110W will reportedly have a 10.1 inch display. It will be powered by an AMD C-50 dual core processor with Radeon graphics. Of course, the AMD C-50 isn't as powerful as the AMD E-350 Zacate processor. In fact, the C-50 is no better than the dual core Atom processor. On the bright side it comes with powerful Radeon graphics which means that it will be able to play 1080p HD video. It also supports the DirectX 11.
The MSI WindPad 110W also has 32GB of storage, a G-sensor, ambient light sensor and WiFi. Still no word on pricing or availability.
Now it looks like the WindPad 100W has a sibling called the WindPad 110W. This model will have an AMD Fusion processor. Digitimes report that MSI will show off the tablet at the CeBIT trade show in Germany next month.
The MSI WindPad 110W will reportedly have a 10.1 inch display. It will be powered by an AMD C-50 dual core processor with Radeon graphics. Of course, the AMD C-50 isn't as powerful as the AMD E-350 Zacate processor. In fact, the C-50 is no better than the dual core Atom processor. On the bright side it comes with powerful Radeon graphics which means that it will be able to play 1080p HD video. It also supports the DirectX 11.
The MSI WindPad 110W also has 32GB of storage, a G-sensor, ambient light sensor and WiFi. Still no word on pricing or availability.
WIFI ONLY HTC FLYER UP FOR PRE-ORDER IN GERMANY
The WiFi only version of the HTC Flyer Android tablet is now up for pre-order in Germany. The Flyer is powered by a 1.5GHz single core processor. It has a 7 inch capacitive touchscreen display with a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels. The tablet also supports a pressure-sensitive stylus.
The 3G-enabled model of the tablet went up for pre-order at Amazon Germany last week for 669 Euros. Now German retailer Cyberport has started taking pre-orders for the WiFi-only model. It is priced at 499 Euros (about 685 USD) but that price includes the VAT.
Besides the stylus support, what makes the HTC Flyer interesting is the operating system it runs. It will ship with Android 2.4 at a time when most PC makers are busy announcing tablets with Android 3.0. The Android 2.4 is very similar to the version of Android that HTC has been running on its smartphones for a while. The company has also developed a new version of its Sense user interface with full screen widgets to run on top of Android. No word on pricing or availability in other parts of the world.
The 3G-enabled model of the tablet went up for pre-order at Amazon Germany last week for 669 Euros. Now German retailer Cyberport has started taking pre-orders for the WiFi-only model. It is priced at 499 Euros (about 685 USD) but that price includes the VAT.
Besides the stylus support, what makes the HTC Flyer interesting is the operating system it runs. It will ship with Android 2.4 at a time when most PC makers are busy announcing tablets with Android 3.0. The Android 2.4 is very similar to the version of Android that HTC has been running on its smartphones for a while. The company has also developed a new version of its Sense user interface with full screen widgets to run on top of Android. No word on pricing or availability in other parts of the world.
CLOSER LOOK AT THE FUJITSU STYLISTIC Q550 WINDOWS TABLET
Fujitsu showed off a Windows 7 tablet with an Intel Oak Trail processor and a 10.1 inch display at CES in January. However, Fujitsu didn't reveal a lot of details back then. Now it looks like the tablet is ready for prime time. Fujitsu will reportedly show off the tablet at the CeBIT trade show in Germany in March.
The Fujitsu Stylistic Q550 is aimed at business users, rather than consumers. It will run Windows 7 Professional operating system. It will be powered by an upcoming Intel Atom Oak Trail processor. The tablet has a touchscreen display which recognizes both pen and finger input. There is also a fingerprint scanner and a smartcard slot.
The Fujitsu Stylistic Q550 will also have a solid state disk of up to 64GB, front and rear facing cameras, a USB port, and optional 3G mobile broadband. The tablet will reportedly be available in Europe in April. No word on pricing at the moment, but bear in mind that Fujitsu has no history of launching cheap computers.
The Fujitsu Stylistic Q550 is aimed at business users, rather than consumers. It will run Windows 7 Professional operating system. It will be powered by an upcoming Intel Atom Oak Trail processor. The tablet has a touchscreen display which recognizes both pen and finger input. There is also a fingerprint scanner and a smartcard slot.
The Fujitsu Stylistic Q550 will also have a solid state disk of up to 64GB, front and rear facing cameras, a USB port, and optional 3G mobile broadband. The tablet will reportedly be available in Europe in April. No word on pricing at the moment, but bear in mind that Fujitsu has no history of launching cheap computers.
DELL UPDATES XPS 15 AND XPS 17 NOTEBOOKS WITH SANDY BRIDGE PROCESSORS
Dell has updated its XPS 15 and XPS 17 multimedia notebooks with Intel's latest 2nd generation Core i series Sandy Bridge processors and new NVIDIA GeForce 500M discrete graphics. The XPS 17 is also available with an optional 3D capable display.
The 15.6 inch XPS 15 L502x and the 17.3 inch XPS 17 L702x also support the NVIDIA Optimus automatic graphics switching technology. Select models also feature the Intel Wireless Display technology and built-in TV tuner. Full HD display resolution is also available as an optional feature. Dell says the new XPS notebooks aren't affected by the recent chipset issue that affected some Sandy Bridge laptops.
The Dell XPS 15 L502x and 17 L702x have a starting price of $1,049.99 and $899.99 respectively. Both models are expected to start shipping on March 15th.
The 15.6 inch XPS 15 L502x and the 17.3 inch XPS 17 L702x also support the NVIDIA Optimus automatic graphics switching technology. Select models also feature the Intel Wireless Display technology and built-in TV tuner. Full HD display resolution is also available as an optional feature. Dell says the new XPS notebooks aren't affected by the recent chipset issue that affected some Sandy Bridge laptops.
The Dell XPS 15 L502x and 17 L702x have a starting price of $1,049.99 and $899.99 respectively. Both models are expected to start shipping on March 15th.
SONY LAUNCHES VAIO CA10 AND CB10 NOTEBOOKS
Sony has officially introduced the C series Sony Vaio CA10 and CB10 notebooks. The 14 inch Sony Vaio CA10 and the 15.5 inch Vaio CB10 notebooks feature Intel's second generation Core i5 processors. Select models have the AMD Radeon HD 6630 hybrid graphics, support for Intel's Wireless Display 2.0 technology and Blu-ray drives.
The Sony Vaio C series will be available in Neon orange, Neon green, Lighting White and Bolt Black colors. Other features include chiclet style keyboards with backlights and webcams. While the Vaio CA10 has a standard resolution display, the Vaio CB is also available with optional full HD resolution display.
The new Vaio C series will be up for pre-order on March 13th at Sony's official website. Prices will start at around $800. Availability is expected in spring.
The Sony Vaio C series will be available in Neon orange, Neon green, Lighting White and Bolt Black colors. Other features include chiclet style keyboards with backlights and webcams. While the Vaio CA10 has a standard resolution display, the Vaio CB is also available with optional full HD resolution display.
The new Vaio C series will be up for pre-order on March 13th at Sony's official website. Prices will start at around $800. Availability is expected in spring.
ACER ASPIRE AS7741Z-4633 OVERVIEW
The Acer Aspire AS7741Z-4633 is budget-friendly 17.3-inch multimedia notebook. One of the best selling laptops at Walmart, it is now available for just $498.
The Aspire AS7741Z-4633 has an Intel Pentium P6100 dual core processor clocking at 2GHz. Other specifications include a 320GB hard drive, 4GB of DDR3 RAM, Intel HD integrated graphics, DVD burner and a 6-cell battery that will reportedly get up to 3.6 hours of run time. Not bad for a 17 inch mainstream laptop.
The Aspire AS7741Z-4633 runs Windows 7 Home Premium operating system. It also has a 1.3 megapixel webcam, stereo speakers, HDMI, VGA, Gigabit LAN, 3 USB ports, WiFi 802.11b/g/n, a 5-in-1 media card reader and a 1600 x 900 pixels display.
The notebook sports a brown chassis with a mesh-patterned lid. It weighs 7.26 pounds.
The Aspire AS7741Z-4633 has an Intel Pentium P6100 dual core processor clocking at 2GHz. Other specifications include a 320GB hard drive, 4GB of DDR3 RAM, Intel HD integrated graphics, DVD burner and a 6-cell battery that will reportedly get up to 3.6 hours of run time. Not bad for a 17 inch mainstream laptop.
The Aspire AS7741Z-4633 runs Windows 7 Home Premium operating system. It also has a 1.3 megapixel webcam, stereo speakers, HDMI, VGA, Gigabit LAN, 3 USB ports, WiFi 802.11b/g/n, a 5-in-1 media card reader and a 1600 x 900 pixels display.
The notebook sports a brown chassis with a mesh-patterned lid. It weighs 7.26 pounds.
HANVON HPAD A112 ANDROID TABLET COMING
Hanvon is all set to introduce yet another Android tablet at the CeBit trade show scheduled to be held in Germany next month. The Hanvon HPad A112 has a 7 inch display with a resolution of 800 x 600 pixels. It will be powered by a 720MHz ARM11 processor and run Android 2.2.
Sure, the tablet doesn't have a powerful processor. But like the Hanvon HPad A116 the company introduced at CES in January, the A112 is also being positioned as an ebook reader and media player for which you don't necessarily have the best processor out there.
The tablet is capable of playing H.264 video of up to 1080p resolution. It also supports other media formats such as MP4, MOV, AVI, ASF, MKV, WMV etc. The HPad A112 also has WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI port, a USB port, a 3 megapixel camera and optional 3G and GPS. It will be available with 256MB or 512MB of RAM and has a 3300mAh battery.
The Hanvon HPad A112 is expected to be available in the second half of 2011. It will run about 399 Euros or $545 US.
Sure, the tablet doesn't have a powerful processor. But like the Hanvon HPad A116 the company introduced at CES in January, the A112 is also being positioned as an ebook reader and media player for which you don't necessarily have the best processor out there.
The tablet is capable of playing H.264 video of up to 1080p resolution. It also supports other media formats such as MP4, MOV, AVI, ASF, MKV, WMV etc. The HPad A112 also has WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI port, a USB port, a 3 megapixel camera and optional 3G and GPS. It will be available with 256MB or 512MB of RAM and has a 3300mAh battery.
The Hanvon HPad A112 is expected to be available in the second half of 2011. It will run about 399 Euros or $545 US.
11.6 INCH SONY VAIO YA WITH INTEL CPU HITS EUROPE
The Sony Vaio YB which is currently available in the US for $550 is an 11.6 inch laptop based on AMD's E-350 Zacate processor. It has an attractive design and delivers decent performance. And now a variation of this laptop has been spotted in Italy. In terms of looks, the Vaio YA is virtually identical to the YB, but it is powered by an Intel processor.
Precisely, the Sony Vaio YA is available with your choice of an Intel Core i3-380UM processor or a Core i5-470UM chip. It runs Windows 7 Home Premium or Professional and has an 11.6 inch display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels.
The base configuration has 2GB of RAM and a 320GB hard drive. The laptop supports up to 8GB of DDR3 RAM. Higher capacity hard drives and solid state drive options are also available. Sony says that the laptop will get around 6 hours of run time with the standard battery. If you need more up time, a 12 hour battery option is also available.
The Sony Vaio YA is priced at 649 Euros or about $887 in Europe. That price includes the VAT. It is not clear whether this model will be available in the US.
Precisely, the Sony Vaio YA is available with your choice of an Intel Core i3-380UM processor or a Core i5-470UM chip. It runs Windows 7 Home Premium or Professional and has an 11.6 inch display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels.
The base configuration has 2GB of RAM and a 320GB hard drive. The laptop supports up to 8GB of DDR3 RAM. Higher capacity hard drives and solid state drive options are also available. Sony says that the laptop will get around 6 hours of run time with the standard battery. If you need more up time, a 12 hour battery option is also available.
The Sony Vaio YA is priced at 649 Euros or about $887 in Europe. That price includes the VAT. It is not clear whether this model will be available in the US.
15.6 INCH GATEWAY NV51B08U WITH AMD ONTARIO NOW AVAILABLE
The Gateway NV51B08u is the company's first laptop with an AMD Fusion APU. It is now available for purchase from Best Buy.
The retailer is selling the 15.6 inch NV51B08u for $349.99. The laptop has a single core 1GHz AMD C-50 Ontario processor with ATI Radeon HD 6250 graphics, a 320GB hard drive, a built-in DVD burner and 3GB of RAM.
The C-50 Ontario processor isn't as powerful as the dual core Zacate processor. In CPU performance it is comparable to Intel's Atom. But because it comes with bundled with the Radeon graphics, it will be capable of handling 1080p HD video.
Gateway says that NV51B08u will get close to 5 hours of battery life. The laptop also has a webcam, HDMI output, Gigabit LAN, 3 USB ports, a media card reader and WiFi 802.11n. The 15.6 inch display has a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. The
Geteway NV51B08u runs Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit.
The retailer is selling the 15.6 inch NV51B08u for $349.99. The laptop has a single core 1GHz AMD C-50 Ontario processor with ATI Radeon HD 6250 graphics, a 320GB hard drive, a built-in DVD burner and 3GB of RAM.
The C-50 Ontario processor isn't as powerful as the dual core Zacate processor. In CPU performance it is comparable to Intel's Atom. But because it comes with bundled with the Radeon graphics, it will be capable of handling 1080p HD video.
Gateway says that NV51B08u will get close to 5 hours of battery life. The laptop also has a webcam, HDMI output, Gigabit LAN, 3 USB ports, a media card reader and WiFi 802.11n. The 15.6 inch display has a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. The
Geteway NV51B08u runs Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit.
MOTOROLA XOOM NOW UP FOR PRE-ORDER FOR $800
Best Buy has started taking pre-orders for the upcoming Motorola Xoom Android tablet. The tablet will be available in stores on February 24th. The model that is currently up for pre-order is 3G-enabled and has a price tag of $799.99. Motorola has also confirmed that there will be a WiFi only version of Xoom, however, there is no word on the availability of that model.
Meanwhile Best Buy isn't the only retailer taking orders for Xoom. Wirefly is also taking orders for the same price. Both models are designed for use on Verizon's wireless network. It looks like Verizon has no plans to subsidize the tablet. The data plans associated with the tablet are month-to-month which means you can cancel any time. Plans run between $20 per month for 1GB of data and $80 per month for up to 10GB of data.
Interestingly the Best Buy ad mentions that customers will have to pay for at least one month of service even if they want to use the tablet as a WiFi-only device. And that is kind of funny because devices usually ship with WiFi activated. In this particular case it looks like WiFi will need to be 'activated' by paying an extra fee.
Meanwhile Best Buy isn't the only retailer taking orders for Xoom. Wirefly is also taking orders for the same price. Both models are designed for use on Verizon's wireless network. It looks like Verizon has no plans to subsidize the tablet. The data plans associated with the tablet are month-to-month which means you can cancel any time. Plans run between $20 per month for 1GB of data and $80 per month for up to 10GB of data.
Interestingly the Best Buy ad mentions that customers will have to pay for at least one month of service even if they want to use the tablet as a WiFi-only device. And that is kind of funny because devices usually ship with WiFi activated. In this particular case it looks like WiFi will need to be 'activated' by paying an extra fee.
ASUS INTRODUCES EEE PC 1011PX WITH ATOM N455
Asus has introduced a new Eee PC. The Asus Eee PC 1011PX is essentially an updated version of the 1001PX which is one of the cheapest and most popular Eee PCs available at the moment. Asus is expected to officially introduce the netbook at the CeBIT trade show in March.
The Eee PC 1011PX is expected to be sold as Eee PC R011PX in some countries. It has a 1.66GHz Intel Atom N455 processor (the 1001X has an Atom N450 processor), 1GB of DDR3 RAM, a 250GB hard drive and WiFi 802.11b/g/n. The netbook runs Windows 7 Starter Edition.
The main difference between the Atom N450 and N455 processors is that the N455 supports DDR3 memory. Bear in mind that there will be no major boost in performance.
The Eee PC 1011PX is expected to be sold as Eee PC R011PX in some countries. It has a 1.66GHz Intel Atom N455 processor (the 1001X has an Atom N450 processor), 1GB of DDR3 RAM, a 250GB hard drive and WiFi 802.11b/g/n. The netbook runs Windows 7 Starter Edition.
The main difference between the Atom N450 and N455 processors is that the N455 supports DDR3 memory. Bear in mind that there will be no major boost in performance.
DELL INSPIRON DUO CONVERTIBLE TABLET NOW SELLING FOR $399
Microsoft Store is now selling the Dell Inspiron Duo convertible tablet style netbook for just $399. The computer has been available for a while, but at launch it sported a $549 price tag.
Unlike typical convertibles which would let you rotate the display down over the keyboard, the Inspiron Duo has a display that rotates inside the lid. When the display faces inward, you can use the machine like a typical netbook. When the display faces outward, you can close the lid and use the machine as a tablet.
Specs-wise, the computer has a 10.1 inch capacitive multitouch display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. It is powered by a 1.5GHz Intel Atom N550 dual core processor with 2GB of RAM and a 320GB, 7200rpm hard drive. The device runs Windows 7 Home Premium. It has a 4-cell battery, a 1 megapixel webcam, 2 USB 2.0 ports and WiFi 802.11b/g/n.
Unlike typical convertibles which would let you rotate the display down over the keyboard, the Inspiron Duo has a display that rotates inside the lid. When the display faces inward, you can use the machine like a typical netbook. When the display faces outward, you can close the lid and use the machine as a tablet.
Specs-wise, the computer has a 10.1 inch capacitive multitouch display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. It is powered by a 1.5GHz Intel Atom N550 dual core processor with 2GB of RAM and a 320GB, 7200rpm hard drive. The device runs Windows 7 Home Premium. It has a 4-cell battery, a 1 megapixel webcam, 2 USB 2.0 ports and WiFi 802.11b/g/n.
LENOVO LEPAD ANDROID TABLET COULD SHIP AROUND THE WORLD IN MAY
Lenovo says that its 10 inch Android tablet called LePad will be available around the world in the first half of this year itself. The tablet will hit China in late March. In May it is expected to be available everywhere else.
The Lenovo LePad is powered by a 1.3 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor. It has a 10.1 inch multitouch display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. It runs Android, although it is not clear which version of the OS.
The Lenovo LePad started its life as the IdeaPad U1 Hybrid. It is still a part of the U1 Hybrid which is essentially a docking station which uses the tablet as a display for a Windows computer. The concept was introduced at CES 2010. Back then Lenovo had no intention to launch a tablet. It was probably the popularity of the iPad that prompted Lenovo to offer the U1 Hybrid display as a standalone tablet. Still, no word on when the U1 Hybrid will hit the market.
The Lenovo LePad is powered by a 1.3 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor. It has a 10.1 inch multitouch display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. It runs Android, although it is not clear which version of the OS.
The Lenovo LePad started its life as the IdeaPad U1 Hybrid. It is still a part of the U1 Hybrid which is essentially a docking station which uses the tablet as a display for a Windows computer. The concept was introduced at CES 2010. Back then Lenovo had no intention to launch a tablet. It was probably the popularity of the iPad that prompted Lenovo to offer the U1 Hybrid display as a standalone tablet. Still, no word on when the U1 Hybrid will hit the market.
MOTOROLA SAYS XOOM WILL GET FREE UPGRADE TO 4G, JUSTIFIES HIGH PRICE TAG
The Motorola Xoom is one of the most anticipated tablets of the year. The device hasn’t hit the market yet, but pricing details are already available. A WiFi-only version will run $600, whereas a 3G-enabled model is priced at whooping $800. That’s the unsubsidized price. The carriers may offer subsidies which could reduce the cost.
Motorola has justified the high price tag by saying that the 3G model will eventually get a free upgrade to 4G. The company is also highlighting many other features that make the Xoom a better tablet (at least on paper) than the iPad. The tablet, for example, has a dual core NVIDIA Tegra processor, 1GB of RAM, a 1280 x 800 pixels display and front and rear facing cameras. iPad lacks many of these features.
Still it is too early to predict whether the market will accept a tablet that costs thrice as much as a typical netbook. After all, the Xoom can’t replace a netbook or a smartphone. It also requires a monthly data plan. The fact that iPad was a huge success doesn’t necessarily mean that there is a huge demand for tablets. A non-Apple company like Motorola or Samsung may not be able script a similar success story if that can’t offer a price that beats the iPad.
Motorola has justified the high price tag by saying that the 3G model will eventually get a free upgrade to 4G. The company is also highlighting many other features that make the Xoom a better tablet (at least on paper) than the iPad. The tablet, for example, has a dual core NVIDIA Tegra processor, 1GB of RAM, a 1280 x 800 pixels display and front and rear facing cameras. iPad lacks many of these features.
Still it is too early to predict whether the market will accept a tablet that costs thrice as much as a typical netbook. After all, the Xoom can’t replace a netbook or a smartphone. It also requires a monthly data plan. The fact that iPad was a huge success doesn’t necessarily mean that there is a huge demand for tablets. A non-Apple company like Motorola or Samsung may not be able script a similar success story if that can’t offer a price that beats the iPad.
TOSHIBA LAUNCHES SATELLITE R830, R840 AND R850
Toshiba has launched the Satellite R800 series laptops. The Toshiba R800 series will initially include the 13.3-inch R830, 14-inch R840, and 15.6-inch R850.
The new Satellite notebooks have Intel's latest full performance CPUs, USB 3.0 ports and built-in optical drives. They sport a slim chassis and new cooling technology. While the R830 has a magnesium alloy chassis, the R840 and R850 sport new High Stiffness Resin cases.
The Satellite R830 and R840 have up to 8GB of RAM, up to 640GB of storage, a built-in webcam and LED backlit displays with 1366 x 768 pixels. Toshiba claims that they will get around 8 hours of battery life. Other specifications include Bluetooth 3.0 and WiFi 802.11n.
No word on pricing at the moment, but the notebooks are expected to be available during the second quarter of 2011 in Europe, Asia and Africa. No word on availability in the US.
The new Satellite notebooks have Intel's latest full performance CPUs, USB 3.0 ports and built-in optical drives. They sport a slim chassis and new cooling technology. While the R830 has a magnesium alloy chassis, the R840 and R850 sport new High Stiffness Resin cases.
The Satellite R830 and R840 have up to 8GB of RAM, up to 640GB of storage, a built-in webcam and LED backlit displays with 1366 x 768 pixels. Toshiba claims that they will get around 8 hours of battery life. Other specifications include Bluetooth 3.0 and WiFi 802.11n.
No word on pricing at the moment, but the notebooks are expected to be available during the second quarter of 2011 in Europe, Asia and Africa. No word on availability in the US.
HTC FLYER TABLET UP FOR PRE-ORDER AT AMAZON GERMANY
Amazon Germany has uploaded a product page for the HTC Flyer tablet which HTC unveiled at the Mobile World Congress yesterday. The 7 inch Android tablet is now up for pre-order for a whooping 669 Euros (about $905 US). Of course, this price could change because the listing seems to be a placeholder.
The Amazon page also states that the tablet will ship with Android 2.4 with a custom version of the HTC Sense UI running on top of it. It will eventually get upgraded to Android 3.0 Honeycomb. Interestingly, the Flyer tablet has full access to the Android Market.
The tablet also has 1GB of RAM, 32GB of storage, a 4000mAh battery and two cameras - a 1.3 megapixel camera on the front side for making video calls and a 5 megapixel camera with autofocus on the back side. It supports HSDPA, WCDMA and GSM mobile broadband networks and WiFi 802.11b/g/n. Although, the Amazon page doesn't mention the stylus, word is that it comes standard with the tablet.
The Amazon page also states that the tablet will ship with Android 2.4 with a custom version of the HTC Sense UI running on top of it. It will eventually get upgraded to Android 3.0 Honeycomb. Interestingly, the Flyer tablet has full access to the Android Market.
The tablet also has 1GB of RAM, 32GB of storage, a 4000mAh battery and two cameras - a 1.3 megapixel camera on the front side for making video calls and a 5 megapixel camera with autofocus on the back side. It supports HSDPA, WCDMA and GSM mobile broadband networks and WiFi 802.11b/g/n. Although, the Amazon page doesn't mention the stylus, word is that it comes standard with the tablet.
SAMSUNG TO LAUNCH 11.6 INCH 9 SERIES NOTEBOOK
Samsung introduced several interesting tablets and laptops at CES in January. Of these, the Samsung Sliding Series tablets and the 9 series notebooks grabbed a lot of headlines, thanks to their unique form factor.
The new Samsung 9 series notebooks weigh 2.9 pounds and measure less than 0.7 inches in thickness. The models that were on display at CES had a 13.3 inch display and a starting price of $1599. Now it looks like there will be an 11.6 inch model as well.
Provantage has started showing listings for an unannounced model with an 11.6 inch display. This machine has a starting price of $1165. According to the product page the laptop will have a 1.33GHz Intel Core i3-380UM processor, 2GB of memory and a 64GB SSD. The 11.6 inch display has a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. Other specifications include 1 USB 2.0 port, 1 USB 3.0 port, an HDMI output port, a micro SD card slot, WiFi 802.11n, Gigabit Ethernet, Bluetooth 3.0 and headphone and mic jacks. The laptop runs Windows 7 Home Premium and comes standard with a 5680mAh battery.
Bear in the mind that the product page at Provantage is a placeholder, because the accompanying image doesn't seem to be of the 9 series laptop.
The new Samsung 9 series notebooks weigh 2.9 pounds and measure less than 0.7 inches in thickness. The models that were on display at CES had a 13.3 inch display and a starting price of $1599. Now it looks like there will be an 11.6 inch model as well.
Provantage has started showing listings for an unannounced model with an 11.6 inch display. This machine has a starting price of $1165. According to the product page the laptop will have a 1.33GHz Intel Core i3-380UM processor, 2GB of memory and a 64GB SSD. The 11.6 inch display has a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. Other specifications include 1 USB 2.0 port, 1 USB 3.0 port, an HDMI output port, a micro SD card slot, WiFi 802.11n, Gigabit Ethernet, Bluetooth 3.0 and headphone and mic jacks. The laptop runs Windows 7 Home Premium and comes standard with a 5680mAh battery.
Bear in the mind that the product page at Provantage is a placeholder, because the accompanying image doesn't seem to be of the 9 series laptop.
VIEWSONIC UNVEILS VIEWPAD 10PRO THAT CAN DUAL BOOT WINDOWS AND ANDROID
The ViewSonic ViewPad 10pro which the company has been showing off at the Mobile World Congress will come in two versions. One version runs Windows. The other runs both Windows 7 and Google Android 2.2.
The tablet has a 10.1 inch capacitive multitouch display with a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels. It is powered by an Intel Oak Trail processor and can be configured with up to 2GB of RAM and up to 32GB of storage. It also has an HDMI port, USB ports and a 1.3 megapixel front-facing camera.
The guys at Engadget who got to spend some time with the tablet says that viewing angles and build quality are average. The biggest USP of the tablet is that on the Windows/Android version users don't have to reboot the system to switch between the operating systems because Android runs in virtualization. And that is quite cool, because you will be able to run thousands of touch-friendly Android apps on a Windows machine.
On the flip side, the ViewPad 10Pro doesn't have access to the Android Market. That means installing third party apps on the tablet will not be as easy as you would like it to be. It is possible, though.
The tablet has a 10.1 inch capacitive multitouch display with a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels. It is powered by an Intel Oak Trail processor and can be configured with up to 2GB of RAM and up to 32GB of storage. It also has an HDMI port, USB ports and a 1.3 megapixel front-facing camera.
The guys at Engadget who got to spend some time with the tablet says that viewing angles and build quality are average. The biggest USP of the tablet is that on the Windows/Android version users don't have to reboot the system to switch between the operating systems because Android runs in virtualization. And that is quite cool, because you will be able to run thousands of touch-friendly Android apps on a Windows machine.
On the flip side, the ViewPad 10Pro doesn't have access to the Android Market. That means installing third party apps on the tablet will not be as easy as you would like it to be. It is possible, though.
MALATA INTRODUCES THREE NEW ANDROID TABLETS WITH HD DISPLAYS
Chinese PC Maker Malata isn't a new player in the tablet space. The company has been showing off NVIDIA Tegra 2 based Android tablets for over six months now. The models that Malata introduced at the Mobile World Congress are better than their predecessors. In addition to the Tegra 2 processor, they also have high resolution displays.
The Malata SMB-B1004 and B1005 both have 10 inch displays with 1280 x 800 pixels. They have wide viewing angles and reportedly support 10 touch inputs simultaneously. Other specifications include 1GB of RAM, 8GB to 32GB of storage, USB ports, microSD card slots, WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS and front and rear facing cameras.
The tablets are designed to run Android 3.0 operating system. They also feature almost every sensor that a typical tablet has including a light sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope, vibration sensor and E-compass.
There is also a third model called MB-B9702. It has a 9.7 inch,1024 x 768 pixels display with an aspect ratio of 4:3. This model has an IPS display for wide viewing angles. The rest of the specs seems to be similar to those of the other two models.
The Malata SMB-B1004 and B1005 both have 10 inch displays with 1280 x 800 pixels. They have wide viewing angles and reportedly support 10 touch inputs simultaneously. Other specifications include 1GB of RAM, 8GB to 32GB of storage, USB ports, microSD card slots, WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS and front and rear facing cameras.
The tablets are designed to run Android 3.0 operating system. They also feature almost every sensor that a typical tablet has including a light sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope, vibration sensor and E-compass.
There is also a third model called MB-B9702. It has a 9.7 inch,1024 x 768 pixels display with an aspect ratio of 4:3. This model has an IPS display for wide viewing angles. The rest of the specs seems to be similar to those of the other two models.
LG OPTIMUS PAD 3D ANDROID TABLET OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED
LG officially launched its Optimus Pad (G-Slate in the US) 3D Android tablet at the Mobile World Congress yesterday. We have already heard that the tablet runs Android 3.0 operating system and has a dual core NVIDIA Tegra 2 processor. It also has a stereoscopic camera that can record 3D videos. And now we have the rest of the details.
The Optimus Pad has an 8.9 inch capacitive touchscreen display with a resolution of 1280 x 768 pixels. It supports 3G, WiFi, Bluetooth and GPS. The tablet also has an HDMI port for transferring HD video to an external monitor or TV.
The tablet houses two 5 megapixel cameras on the rear side for recording stereoscopic 3D video. However, you will need special glasses to watch the recorded 3D video on the tablet's display. Other specifications include a micro USB port, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, 2 megapixel camera on the front side and 32GB of storage.
The Optimus Pad has an 8.9 inch capacitive touchscreen display with a resolution of 1280 x 768 pixels. It supports 3G, WiFi, Bluetooth and GPS. The tablet also has an HDMI port for transferring HD video to an external monitor or TV.
The tablet houses two 5 megapixel cameras on the rear side for recording stereoscopic 3D video. However, you will need special glasses to watch the recorded 3D video on the tablet's display. Other specifications include a micro USB port, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, 2 megapixel camera on the front side and 32GB of storage.
ACER INTRODUCES 2 aNDROID AND 1 WINDOWS TABLET AT MWC
At the ongoing Mobile World Congress, Acer has three tablets on display. Two of these machines - the Acer Iconia Tab A500 which was on display at CES as well and the 7 inch Iconia Tab A100 - run Google Android. There is also a 10 inch Windows tablet called the Iconia Tab W500.
The Android models have a 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 dual core processor. While the 7 inch A100 has 512MB of RAM and 8GB of storage, the 10 inch A500 has 1GB of RAM and 16GB / 32GB of storage. Both run Android 3.0 Honeycomb operating system. Both tablets are due out in April.
The Iconia Tab W500 has a 10.1 inch multitouch display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. It is powered by a dual core C-50 AMD Ontario processor and Radeon HD 6250 graphics. It runs Windows 7 and can be configured with up to 2GB of RAM and up to 32GB of storage.
The W500 will reportedly also have a full sized keyboard docking station, although it is not clear whether the dock is standard or optional.
The Android models have a 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 dual core processor. While the 7 inch A100 has 512MB of RAM and 8GB of storage, the 10 inch A500 has 1GB of RAM and 16GB / 32GB of storage. Both run Android 3.0 Honeycomb operating system. Both tablets are due out in April.
The Iconia Tab W500 has a 10.1 inch multitouch display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. It is powered by a dual core C-50 AMD Ontario processor and Radeon HD 6250 graphics. It runs Windows 7 and can be configured with up to 2GB of RAM and up to 32GB of storage.
The W500 will reportedly also have a full sized keyboard docking station, although it is not clear whether the dock is standard or optional.
ACER ASPIRE ONE D257 SPOTTED IN THE WILD
A new 10 inch netbook bearing the Acer Aspire brand name has been spotted. The company isn't providing a lot of details, but the Aspire One D257 seems to be one of the thinnest netbooks around. It measures less than one inch in thickness.
Like the last few models in the Aspire One series, the D257 can also dual boot Google Android and Windows 7 Starter OS. But note that the dual boot versions are available only in certain parts of the world.
Acer says that the Aspire One D257 will be available in aquamarine, dark chocolate or seashell white colors. There is still no word on what processor or how much memory and storage the laptop has, but Acer says that it will last for up to 8 hours on a single charge. The supported connectivity options include Bluetooth and WiFi.
The Aspire One D257 has 3 USB ports, a VGA port, Ethernet port, headphone and mic jacks. It doesn't have an HDMI port which probably also suggests that it will not have any discrete graphics options. My guess is that it has an Intel Atom processor with integrated graphics.
Like the last few models in the Aspire One series, the D257 can also dual boot Google Android and Windows 7 Starter OS. But note that the dual boot versions are available only in certain parts of the world.
Acer says that the Aspire One D257 will be available in aquamarine, dark chocolate or seashell white colors. There is still no word on what processor or how much memory and storage the laptop has, but Acer says that it will last for up to 8 hours on a single charge. The supported connectivity options include Bluetooth and WiFi.
The Aspire One D257 has 3 USB ports, a VGA port, Ethernet port, headphone and mic jacks. It doesn't have an HDMI port which probably also suggests that it will not have any discrete graphics options. My guess is that it has an Intel Atom processor with integrated graphics.
MOTOROLA XOOM TO RUN $1200?
Best Buy has uploaded a product listing for the upcoming Motorola Xoom Android tablet. The device will be up for pre-order on Thursday. Now here is the downer. The Best Buy page says that the tablet will run a whooping $1199.99. Previous rumors had suggested that it would be available for $800.
It is possible that the new listing is a mistake or maybe that is exactly what the tablet will cost.
Although the pricing is going to put of most buyers, the tablet does have interesting specs. It has a 10.1 inch multitouch display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. It will be powered by a 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 dual core processor. The Motorola Xoom runs Android 3.0. Other specifications include a 5 megapixel camera, 1GB of RAM and a 32GB solid state drive. The supported connectivity options include WiFi 802.11b/g/n, Bluetooth 2.1 and 3G.
It is possible that the new listing is a mistake or maybe that is exactly what the tablet will cost.
Although the pricing is going to put of most buyers, the tablet does have interesting specs. It has a 10.1 inch multitouch display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. It will be powered by a 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 dual core processor. The Motorola Xoom runs Android 3.0. Other specifications include a 5 megapixel camera, 1GB of RAM and a 32GB solid state drive. The supported connectivity options include WiFi 802.11b/g/n, Bluetooth 2.1 and 3G.
SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB II PICTURES AND SPECS LEAK
Official pictures and specifications of the Samsung Galaxy Tab II have leaked ahead of the tablet's official launch at the Mobile World Congress this evening.
As we have already heard, the Galaxy Tab II has a 10.1 inch display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. It runs Android 3.0 aka Honeycomb operating system. This is the version of Android specifically optimized for tablets. Interestingly, the Galaxy Tab II will not have any custom user interface on top of Android 3.0. The tablet reportedly also has an 8 megapixel camera with video recording capabilities and two speakers for virtual surround sound.
The tablet has a 1GHz processor, but it is not clear whether it is single core or double core. Previous reports had suggested that Samsung would use a dual core Qualcomm chip or the NVIDIA Tegra 2 processor in its tablet. Still no word on pricing or availability.
As we have already heard, the Galaxy Tab II has a 10.1 inch display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. It runs Android 3.0 aka Honeycomb operating system. This is the version of Android specifically optimized for tablets. Interestingly, the Galaxy Tab II will not have any custom user interface on top of Android 3.0. The tablet reportedly also has an 8 megapixel camera with video recording capabilities and two speakers for virtual surround sound.
The tablet has a 1GHz processor, but it is not clear whether it is single core or double core. Previous reports had suggested that Samsung would use a dual core Qualcomm chip or the NVIDIA Tegra 2 processor in its tablet. Still no word on pricing or availability.
LENOVO THINKPAD X120E TO START SHIPPING IN MARCH
The Lenovo ThinkPad X120e is an ultraportable business notebook. It has an 11.6 inch display, an AMD Zacate processor and Radeon HD graphics. CNET reports that the notebook will go on sale in the US on March 8. Earlier reports had suggested that it would start shipping as early as next week.
The ThinkPad X120e will not be available in all parts of the world. Lenovo does not plan to launch the notebook in countries where the ThinkPad Edge 11 is currently available. Of course, this could change.
The X120e will start at $400. It can be configured with up to an AMD E-350 Zacate processor and up to Windows 7 Professional operating system. The 11.6 inch anti-glare display has a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. The 6-cell battery will reportedly get around 7.5 hours of run time. Like other notebooks in the ThinkPad series, the X120e also has a TrackPoint system which includes a multitouch touchpad and a pointing device located in the middle of the keyboard.
The ThinkPad X120e will not be available in all parts of the world. Lenovo does not plan to launch the notebook in countries where the ThinkPad Edge 11 is currently available. Of course, this could change.
The X120e will start at $400. It can be configured with up to an AMD E-350 Zacate processor and up to Windows 7 Professional operating system. The 11.6 inch anti-glare display has a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. The 6-cell battery will reportedly get around 7.5 hours of run time. Like other notebooks in the ThinkPad series, the X120e also has a TrackPoint system which includes a multitouch touchpad and a pointing device located in the middle of the keyboard.
HP LAUNCHES NEW PAVILION AND G SERIES NOTEBOOKS
HP has refreshed and redesigned its Pavilion and G series consumer oriented notebooks. The 15.6 inch Pavilion dv6t and the 17.3 inch Pavilion dv7t both have 2nd generation Intel Core series processors and optional AMD Radeon 6000M series graphics. While the dv6t is available with up to 1TB of storage, the dv7t has up to 2TB of storage. Both notebooks feature a 'dark umber' metal finishing, Beats Audio, quad speakers, optional Blu-ray and USB 3.0 ports. They also feature the HP CoolSense cooling technology for keeping the temperatures down.
There are 3 models in the HP Pavilion g series. The 14 inch Pavilion g4, 15.6 inch Pavilion g6 and 17.3 inch Pavilion g7 are available with Intel Pentium and Core i3 processor options. Various color choices are also available with these notebooks.
Pricing and availability
The HP Pavilion dv6t and dv7t are expected to be available in the spring. No word on pricing. The Pavilion g4, g6 and g7 will be available starting March 13th for $499.99, $449.99 and $599.99 respectively.
There are 3 models in the HP Pavilion g series. The 14 inch Pavilion g4, 15.6 inch Pavilion g6 and 17.3 inch Pavilion g7 are available with Intel Pentium and Core i3 processor options. Various color choices are also available with these notebooks.
Pricing and availability
The HP Pavilion dv6t and dv7t are expected to be available in the spring. No word on pricing. The Pavilion g4, g6 and g7 will be available starting March 13th for $499.99, $449.99 and $599.99 respectively.
DELL REVEALS 2011 BUSINESS LAPTOP LINEUP
Dell has announced its 2011 lineup of business computers and these include tablets, laptops and mobile workstations.
The refreshed Dell Latitude line now includes the budget-friendly Latitude E5420 and E5520 notebooks and the rugged Latitude E6520, E6420, E6320, E6220 and E6420 ATG laptops. All the models in the Latitude E6000 series feature MIL-STD tested Tri-Metal cases and durable displays. Dell also announced a 13 inch convertible tablet style notebook called Latitude XT3.
All notebooks are based on Intel's 2nd generation Core series processors and sport refreshed chassis designs. Regarding mobile workstations, there are two models - the Precision M6600 and M4600. Few details are available about these machines at the moment. Dell will reportedly also launch a 10 inch Windows business tablet later this year.
The Dell Latitude E5420 and Latitude E5520 will start at $859. No word on pricing or availability of other models.
The refreshed Dell Latitude line now includes the budget-friendly Latitude E5420 and E5520 notebooks and the rugged Latitude E6520, E6420, E6320, E6220 and E6420 ATG laptops. All the models in the Latitude E6000 series feature MIL-STD tested Tri-Metal cases and durable displays. Dell also announced a 13 inch convertible tablet style notebook called Latitude XT3.
All notebooks are based on Intel's 2nd generation Core series processors and sport refreshed chassis designs. Regarding mobile workstations, there are two models - the Precision M6600 and M4600. Few details are available about these machines at the moment. Dell will reportedly also launch a 10 inch Windows business tablet later this year.
The Dell Latitude E5420 and Latitude E5520 will start at $859. No word on pricing or availability of other models.
SONY VAIO YB WITH AMD ZACATE PROCESSOR REVIEWED
The new Sony Vaio YB is an ultraportable notebook with an 11.6 inch display. It is not as expensive as the Vaio P or Vaio X notebooks. But while the Vaio P and Vaio X are powered by low power Intel Atom processors, the Vaio YB is different. It has an AMD E-350 dual core Zacate processor with Radeon HD 6310 graphics. And at $599, it is also reasonably priced (for a Sony laptop anyway).
Still, the Vaio YB is pricier than similar notebooks from HP and Lenovo. So how does the machine perform in real life situations?
Laptop Magazine has published a detailed review of the notebook. According to the reviewer, the VAIO YB is stylish and light weight. It also delivers reasonably good performance, thanks to its AMD Fusion APU. As for battery life, the notebook lasts for about 5 hours on a charge. Not bad for an AMD-powered ultraportable, but bear in mind that HP and Lenovo laptops with the same E-350 processor get over 6 hours of run time. On the bright side, the laptop can handle 1080p HD video. It also remains cool even while performing graphics intensive tasks.
The speakers and webcam aren't very impressive. The keyboard also seems to be a little cramped.
Overall, it looks like the Vaio YB is an interesting notebook. It is stylish and delivers excellent graphics performance. On the flip side, lower-prized competitors such as the HP Pavilion dm1z and the Lenovo ThinkPad X120e get better battery life and have better keyboards. But in the styles department, neither will beat the Vaio YB.
Still, the Vaio YB is pricier than similar notebooks from HP and Lenovo. So how does the machine perform in real life situations?
Laptop Magazine has published a detailed review of the notebook. According to the reviewer, the VAIO YB is stylish and light weight. It also delivers reasonably good performance, thanks to its AMD Fusion APU. As for battery life, the notebook lasts for about 5 hours on a charge. Not bad for an AMD-powered ultraportable, but bear in mind that HP and Lenovo laptops with the same E-350 processor get over 6 hours of run time. On the bright side, the laptop can handle 1080p HD video. It also remains cool even while performing graphics intensive tasks.
The speakers and webcam aren't very impressive. The keyboard also seems to be a little cramped.
Overall, it looks like the Vaio YB is an interesting notebook. It is stylish and delivers excellent graphics performance. On the flip side, lower-prized competitors such as the HP Pavilion dm1z and the Lenovo ThinkPad X120e get better battery life and have better keyboards. But in the styles department, neither will beat the Vaio YB.
ADOBE FLASH PLAYER 10.2 NOW AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD, ADDS SUPPORT FOR AMD FUSION DISPLAY
The Flash Player 10.2 for Windows, Mac and Linux is now available for download. The new version offers better hardware acceleration and support for full-screen video on computers with multiple monitors. What this means that you will be able to watch full-screen video on one monitor while running other apps on another. Earlier versions of Flash Player didn't support this feature. Of course, you could watch a video in full-screen mode, but as soon as you clicked something else in another display, the video will return to its original windowed mode.
The new version of Flash also supports hardware acceleration for AMD's new Ontario and Zacate Fusion APUs with Radeon HD graphics. That means you will be able to watch HD Flash video on computers powered by one of these processors.
Adobe Flash Player 10.2 is available as a free download.
The new version of Flash also supports hardware acceleration for AMD's new Ontario and Zacate Fusion APUs with Radeon HD graphics. That means you will be able to watch HD Flash video on computers powered by one of these processors.
Adobe Flash Player 10.2 is available as a free download.
DELL DISCONTINUES ITS ADAMO ULTRATHIN NOTEBOOK LINE
The Dell Adamo ultrathin notebook was introduced in 2009. Back then it was viewed as Dell's answer to Apple's MacBook Air. Both were ultrathin notebooks with 13 inch displays. And much like the Macbook Air, the Adamo had a ridiculously high price tag. It started at around $2000.
Over the years, Dell revised its pricing several times. The notebook also got thinner. And now word is that Dell is discontinuing its Adamo line altogether. According to a CNET report, Dell will introduce a new ultrathin notebook in about 6 months. That model will, however, not be an Adamo. It is more likely to wear the Inspiron, XPS or Alienware brand names.
While new Adamo laptops are no longer available from Dell's web store, you can still find good deals on refurbished Adamo models, with prices starting as low as $759.
Over the years, Dell revised its pricing several times. The notebook also got thinner. And now word is that Dell is discontinuing its Adamo line altogether. According to a CNET report, Dell will introduce a new ultrathin notebook in about 6 months. That model will, however, not be an Adamo. It is more likely to wear the Inspiron, XPS or Alienware brand names.
While new Adamo laptops are no longer available from Dell's web store, you can still find good deals on refurbished Adamo models, with prices starting as low as $759.
HP UNVEILS ITS WEBOS TABLET CALLED TOUCHPAD
HP has officially introduced its first webOS tablet. The device is called HP TouchPad. The HP TouchPad has a 9.7 inch display with a resolution of 1024 x 768 pixels. It weighs 1.6 pounds. The tablet is due out this summer. At launch it will be WiFi only. 3G and 4G versions will eventually hit the market.
The HP Touchpad has a 1.3 megapixel camera, stereo speakers, WiFi 802.11b/g/n, Bluetooth 2.1, 512MB of RAM and 16GB / 32GB of storage. It is powered by a 1.2GHz dual core processor. The tablet supports video calls. It also has a gyroscope, accelerometer, compass and a 6300mAh battery. It runs webOS 3.0 operating system.
The Touchpad is HP's answer to the iPad. It is essentially a larger Palm Pre with a higher resolution display. While the webOS is a nice smartphone operating system, it is far behind the iOS in the smartphone space. So it is not clear how this machine is going to take on the iPad.
Perhaps the biggest selling point of the tablet at the moment is its ability to integrate with a smartphone running webOS. So for example, if you have a webos phone and the Touchpad, you will be able to access the phone's data on the tablet and tablet's data on the phone. The TouchPad will also be able to do things like send and receive text messages.
The HP Touchpad has a 1.3 megapixel camera, stereo speakers, WiFi 802.11b/g/n, Bluetooth 2.1, 512MB of RAM and 16GB / 32GB of storage. It is powered by a 1.2GHz dual core processor. The tablet supports video calls. It also has a gyroscope, accelerometer, compass and a 6300mAh battery. It runs webOS 3.0 operating system.
The Touchpad is HP's answer to the iPad. It is essentially a larger Palm Pre with a higher resolution display. While the webOS is a nice smartphone operating system, it is far behind the iOS in the smartphone space. So it is not clear how this machine is going to take on the iPad.
Perhaps the biggest selling point of the tablet at the moment is its ability to integrate with a smartphone running webOS. So for example, if you have a webos phone and the Touchpad, you will be able to access the phone's data on the tablet and tablet's data on the phone. The TouchPad will also be able to do things like send and receive text messages.
PIONEER INTRODUCED DREAMBOOK EPAD F10 TABLET COMPUTER
Australian computer maker Pioneer has introduced a new 10 inch Windows tablet. The Dreambook ePad F10 has a 1.5 GHz Intel Atom Z670 Oak Trail processor, integrated graphics and a 10.1 inch multitouch display with a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels.
Other specifications include up to 2GB of RAM, 16GB to 128GB of SSD, WiFi and optional 3G. The tablet also supports Intel's WiDi wireless display technology for wirelessly streaming video from the computer to an external monitor.
The Dreambook ePad F10 also has an HDMI port, a 1.3 megapixel camera, USB port, mic, headphone jacks, a SIM card slot and an SD card slot. The tablet will reportedly get up to 8 hours of battery life. The tablet will also be able to run Google Android operating system.
The Dreambook ePad F10 is priced at $499 Australian. That is the price for a model with 1GB of RAM, just 16GB of storage, no operating system and no camera.
Other specifications include up to 2GB of RAM, 16GB to 128GB of SSD, WiFi and optional 3G. The tablet also supports Intel's WiDi wireless display technology for wirelessly streaming video from the computer to an external monitor.
The Dreambook ePad F10 also has an HDMI port, a 1.3 megapixel camera, USB port, mic, headphone jacks, a SIM card slot and an SD card slot. The tablet will reportedly get up to 8 hours of battery life. The tablet will also be able to run Google Android operating system.
The Dreambook ePad F10 is priced at $499 Australian. That is the price for a model with 1GB of RAM, just 16GB of storage, no operating system and no camera.
DELL TO LAUNCH 10 INCH WINDOWS AND ANDROID TABLETS LATER THIS YEAR
At a press event held today Dell announced plans to launch a couple of 10 inch tablets. One of these machines will be Windows based while the other will run Android operating system. Few details are available at the moment. The Windows tablet will reportedly be aimed at enterprise customers.
Even fewer details are available about the Android tablet at the moment. It too is expected to have a 10 inch display. It is not clear whether it will look like the Dell Streak 5 and Dell Streak 7 Android tablets.
Hopefully the 10 inch Android tablet will have a higher resolution display. The 5 inch Dell Streak and 7 inch Dell Streak 7 have 800 x 480 pixels display. In fact, the Streak 7's lower resolution display was heavily panned by most reviewers. No word on the processor or other specs at the moment. Both tablets are expected to available later this year.
Even fewer details are available about the Android tablet at the moment. It too is expected to have a 10 inch display. It is not clear whether it will look like the Dell Streak 5 and Dell Streak 7 Android tablets.
Hopefully the 10 inch Android tablet will have a higher resolution display. The 5 inch Dell Streak and 7 inch Dell Streak 7 have 800 x 480 pixels display. In fact, the Streak 7's lower resolution display was heavily panned by most reviewers. No word on the processor or other specs at the moment. Both tablets are expected to available later this year.
SONY VAIO YB ULTRAPORTABLE WITH AMD ZACATE PROCESSOR NOW AVAILABLE IN THE US
The Sony Vaio YB ultraportable laptop has been available in Japan for a few weeks. It has now made its debut in the US.
The Sony Vaio YB has an 11.6 inch display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. Its claim to fame is the dual core 1.6GHz AMD Zacate E-350 processor and Radeon 6310 graphics. The laptop is now up for pre-order at Sony Style for $599.99. That model has 4GB of RAM and a 500GB hard drive. Amazon is also taking pre-order for $549.99. That model has less RAM (2GB) and less storage (320GB) than the $600 model.
The Sony Vaio YB also has VGA, HDMI output, WiFi 802.11b/g/n and Bluetooth 2.1. The laptop is available with pink and silver lids and sports an attractive design.
The Sony Vaio YB has an 11.6 inch display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. Its claim to fame is the dual core 1.6GHz AMD Zacate E-350 processor and Radeon 6310 graphics. The laptop is now up for pre-order at Sony Style for $599.99. That model has 4GB of RAM and a 500GB hard drive. Amazon is also taking pre-order for $549.99. That model has less RAM (2GB) and less storage (320GB) than the $600 model.
The Sony Vaio YB also has VGA, HDMI output, WiFi 802.11b/g/n and Bluetooth 2.1. The laptop is available with pink and silver lids and sports an attractive design.
MOTOROLA XOOM TO COST $800, MAY LAUNCH ON FEBRUARY 24TH
The Motorola Xoom will probably be the first Android tablet to launch with Android 3.0 aka Honeycomb operating system. Honeycomb is the version of Android specifically designed for tablets. The device has been getting a lot of attention ever since Motorola announced it.
While Motorola is yet to officially announce the pricing and launch details of the tablet, word is that it will launch at Best Buy of February 24th with a whooping price tag of $799.99.
At launch, it looks like there will be no WiFi only model. That means you will have to purchase a 3G model even if you don't want to use the tablet with Verizon Wireless. What is even more ridiculous is that according to the Best Buy ad you will have to pay for at least one month of Verizon service to unlock the WiFi functionality.
So what will you get for $800? Is Xoom worth the seemingly steep price tag? Well, the tablet does have interesting hardware. It has a dual core processor and a higher resolution display than the iPad. It also has a 3G modem, two cameras (at 2MP and 5MP) and HD video recording and playback capabilities. The iPad with 3G and 32GB of storage costs $729. In other words Xoom has better hardware than the iPad, but it costs only $70 more.
While Motorola is yet to officially announce the pricing and launch details of the tablet, word is that it will launch at Best Buy of February 24th with a whooping price tag of $799.99.
At launch, it looks like there will be no WiFi only model. That means you will have to purchase a 3G model even if you don't want to use the tablet with Verizon Wireless. What is even more ridiculous is that according to the Best Buy ad you will have to pay for at least one month of Verizon service to unlock the WiFi functionality.
So what will you get for $800? Is Xoom worth the seemingly steep price tag? Well, the tablet does have interesting hardware. It has a dual core processor and a higher resolution display than the iPad. It also has a 3G modem, two cameras (at 2MP and 5MP) and HD video recording and playback capabilities. The iPad with 3G and 32GB of storage costs $729. In other words Xoom has better hardware than the iPad, but it costs only $70 more.
SAMSUNG LAUNCHES NF208 NETBOOK WITH NO OS
The Samsung NF208 looks exactly like the recently introduced Samsung NF210. Under the hood, however, the netbooks are somewhat different.
The NF208 has a dual core Intel Atom N550 processor and ships without an operating system. Laptops usually ship with an operating sytem pre-installed. It is not clear what Samsung is trying to prove by shipping a netbook with no OS. On the bright side, it lets install any operating system of your choice. And because the netbook has an x86 based processor, it can run any operating system.
The Samsung NF208 has a 1024 x 600 pixel display, 2GB of DDR3 memory and a 320GB hard drive. It comes standard with a 6-cell battery. The laptop is now available in many parts of the world, but not in the US.
The NF208 has a dual core Intel Atom N550 processor and ships without an operating system. Laptops usually ship with an operating sytem pre-installed. It is not clear what Samsung is trying to prove by shipping a netbook with no OS. On the bright side, it lets install any operating system of your choice. And because the netbook has an x86 based processor, it can run any operating system.
The Samsung NF208 has a 1024 x 600 pixel display, 2GB of DDR3 memory and a 320GB hard drive. It comes standard with a 6-cell battery. The laptop is now available in many parts of the world, but not in the US.
ELOCITY A10 ANDROID TABLET TO BE UP FOR PRE-ORDER FROM FEBRUARY 15TH
Online retailers such as Amazon, TigerDirect and J&R will start taking pre-orders for the eLocity A10 Android tablet starting on February 15th.
The eLocity A10 has a 10.1 inch HD display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. It is powered by a 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 dual core processor. The tablet has 512MB of RAM, an HDMI output port, a microSD card slot, a USB 2.0 host port, 3-axis accelerometer, ambient light sensor and a 1.3 megapixel front facing camera. The supported connectivity options include Bluetooth 2.1 and WiFi 802.11b/g/n.The eLocity A10 doesn't have 3G. There is also a docking station port, but the company doesn't offer any ports at the moment.
The 4G model runs $399. 32GB ($599.99) and 64GB ($699.99) models are also available. The eLocity A10 runs Android 2.2 operating system. The company says that they will eventually offer an update to Android 3.0 aka Honeycomb. Still no word on a firm launch date.
The eLocity A10 has a 10.1 inch HD display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. It is powered by a 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 dual core processor. The tablet has 512MB of RAM, an HDMI output port, a microSD card slot, a USB 2.0 host port, 3-axis accelerometer, ambient light sensor and a 1.3 megapixel front facing camera. The supported connectivity options include Bluetooth 2.1 and WiFi 802.11b/g/n.The eLocity A10 doesn't have 3G. There is also a docking station port, but the company doesn't offer any ports at the moment.
The 4G model runs $399. 32GB ($599.99) and 64GB ($699.99) models are also available. The eLocity A10 runs Android 2.2 operating system. The company says that they will eventually offer an update to Android 3.0 aka Honeycomb. Still no word on a firm launch date.
THE LG G-SLATE TO GO INTERNATIONAL AS LG OPTIMUS PAD
LG is expected to show off its G-Slate Android tablet at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona later this month. In the US, the LG G-Slate will be available on T-Mobile's HSPA+ network in March. Meanwhile,LG has announced that the tablet will be available internationally. The international version will be called LG Optimus Pad. It will have the same features as the T-Mobile LG G-Slate.
The LG G-Slate or Optimus Pad is powered by a 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 dual core processor. It has an 8.9 inch capacitive touchscreen display with a resolution of 1280 x 768 pixels. Other specifications include 32GB of onboard storage, gyroscope and a 6400mAh battery. The tablet can handle 1080p HD video. It also has a 3D capable display, but it requires special glasses. Another remarkable feature is the stereoscopic camera on the rear side which can shoot videos in 3D. Aside from the 3D camera, the tablet has two other cameras. That means three cameras in all - two on the rear side and one on the front side.
The LG Optimus Pad runs Google Android 3.0 Honeycomb. No word on pricing at the moment.
The LG G-Slate or Optimus Pad is powered by a 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 dual core processor. It has an 8.9 inch capacitive touchscreen display with a resolution of 1280 x 768 pixels. Other specifications include 32GB of onboard storage, gyroscope and a 6400mAh battery. The tablet can handle 1080p HD video. It also has a 3D capable display, but it requires special glasses. Another remarkable feature is the stereoscopic camera on the rear side which can shoot videos in 3D. Aside from the 3D camera, the tablet has two other cameras. That means three cameras in all - two on the rear side and one on the front side.
The LG Optimus Pad runs Google Android 3.0 Honeycomb. No word on pricing at the moment.
SAMSUNG NC110 NETBOOK NOW AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER
The Samsung NC110 is now up for pre-order at J&R. The NC110 was one of the three 10 inch netbooks Samsung introduced at CES in January. It has a chiclet style keyboard and wide touchpad. Unlike previous netbooks from Samsung this model also has a wavy design on the sides.
When Samsung introduced the netbook at CES it was heard that it would be available with the dual core Atom N570 processor. The model that is currently up for pre-order, however, doesn't have the N570 processor. Instead it sports a 1.66GHz Intel Atom N455 processor.Other specifications include 1GB of DDR3 memory, a 250GB hard drive, a 6-cell battery and Windows 7 Starter Edition. J&R is taking pre-orders for $319.99. It is not clear if and when that model with the Atom N570 will be available.
When Samsung introduced the netbook at CES it was heard that it would be available with the dual core Atom N570 processor. The model that is currently up for pre-order, however, doesn't have the N570 processor. Instead it sports a 1.66GHz Intel Atom N455 processor.Other specifications include 1GB of DDR3 memory, a 250GB hard drive, a 6-cell battery and Windows 7 Starter Edition. J&R is taking pre-orders for $319.99. It is not clear if and when that model with the Atom N570 will be available.
ATRIX 4G WILL COST $500 WITH THE LAPTOP DOCK
In a previous post we had mentioned why the Motorola Atrix 4G deserves a mention on this blog: it comes with an optional laptop docking station which effectively turns the phone into a laptop.
AT&T will start taking pre-orders for the Atrix 4G on February 13th. The smartphone alone will run $200 with a 2-year service contract. But if you also plan to purchase the Webtop laptop docking station, you will have to shell out a cool $500. In case, you don't buy the webtop at the same time as the phone, it will cost even more. If purchased separately the dock will run $499.99.
The Motorola Atrix 4G is powered by a 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 dual core processor. It has 1GB of RAM and 16GB of storage space. It runs Android 2.2 operating system and will connect to AT&T's 4G HSPA+ mobile broadband service.
The Webtop docking station has an 11.6 inch display and a 36Whr battery. When you dock the phone it will power the laptop which runs a custom Linux based operating system and has a full Firefox web browser. While the phone is docked you can also make phone calls.
AT&T will start taking pre-orders for the Atrix 4G on February 13th. The smartphone alone will run $200 with a 2-year service contract. But if you also plan to purchase the Webtop laptop docking station, you will have to shell out a cool $500. In case, you don't buy the webtop at the same time as the phone, it will cost even more. If purchased separately the dock will run $499.99.
The Motorola Atrix 4G is powered by a 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 dual core processor. It has 1GB of RAM and 16GB of storage space. It runs Android 2.2 operating system and will connect to AT&T's 4G HSPA+ mobile broadband service.
The Webtop docking station has an 11.6 inch display and a 36Whr battery. When you dock the phone it will power the laptop which runs a custom Linux based operating system and has a full Firefox web browser. While the phone is docked you can also make phone calls.
TOSHIBA RECALLS SELECT MODELS OF SANDY BRIDGE BASED LAPTOPS
Toshiba has recalled select laptops based on Intel's 2nd generation Sandy Bridge core series processors. The recall was issued after it was discovered that the included Intel 6 series 'Cougar Point' chipsets were faulty.
The affected notebooks include select models of Satellite A660 / A665, L655 and M645 series models. The Satellite E305-S1990 and select models of the Toshiba Portege R835 laptops, Qosmio X505 series systems, and the Qosmio X500-Q930 laptops have also been recalled.
Toshiba has requested customers who bought the faulty laptops to return the machine to the place of purchase for a full refund. The chipset flaw has affected laptops built by most major PC Makers including HP, Dell, Acer, Lenovo and others. However, Toshiba is the first company to officially recall its products.
Meanwhile Dell has halted the sale of its Sandy Bridge based Alienware M17x R3 gaming laptop. The company has also postponed the release of its XPS 17 3D.
The affected notebooks include select models of Satellite A660 / A665, L655 and M645 series models. The Satellite E305-S1990 and select models of the Toshiba Portege R835 laptops, Qosmio X505 series systems, and the Qosmio X500-Q930 laptops have also been recalled.
Toshiba has requested customers who bought the faulty laptops to return the machine to the place of purchase for a full refund. The chipset flaw has affected laptops built by most major PC Makers including HP, Dell, Acer, Lenovo and others. However, Toshiba is the first company to officially recall its products.
Meanwhile Dell has halted the sale of its Sandy Bridge based Alienware M17x R3 gaming laptop. The company has also postponed the release of its XPS 17 3D.
ASUS EEE SLATE EP121 WINDOWS TABLET NOW SHIPPING
The Asus Eee Slate EP121 is the first of the four tablets Asus introduced this year to go on sale. It has a 12.1 inch display and runs Windows 7. The Eee Slate EP121 has been up for pre-order at Amazon since January 5th. Now the retailer has the tablet in stock.
The Eee Slate EP121 has a capacitive touchscreen display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. It comes with a stylus for precise input. The tablet is powered by a dual core Intel i5-470UM processor. Other specifications include 2 to 4GB of DDR3 RAM, 32GB / 64GB solid state disks and a 2 megapixel webcam. The supported connectivity options include WiFi 802.11b/g/n and Bluetooth 3.0.
The Eee Slate EP121 also has 2 USB 2.0 ports, headphone and mic combo jack, a mini HDMI port and a flash card reader. It also comes with a Bluetooth keyboard. Asus says that the 32Whr battery will get up to 4.5 hours of runtime.
The 32GB model is now up for order at Amazon for $999. The 64GB model is priced at $1099.
The Eee Slate EP121 has a capacitive touchscreen display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. It comes with a stylus for precise input. The tablet is powered by a dual core Intel i5-470UM processor. Other specifications include 2 to 4GB of DDR3 RAM, 32GB / 64GB solid state disks and a 2 megapixel webcam. The supported connectivity options include WiFi 802.11b/g/n and Bluetooth 3.0.
The Eee Slate EP121 also has 2 USB 2.0 ports, headphone and mic combo jack, a mini HDMI port and a flash card reader. It also comes with a Bluetooth keyboard. Asus says that the 32Whr battery will get up to 4.5 hours of runtime.
The 32GB model is now up for order at Amazon for $999. The 64GB model is priced at $1099.
DELL STREAK 7 ANDROID TABLET NOW SHIPPING
The Dell Streak 7 Android tablet has gone on sale. The 4G capable tablet can be purchased from T-Mobile for $199.99 with a 2 year mobile broadband service contract. Or you can pick up one from Dell. The SIM-free model runs $449.99.
The Dell Streak 7 has a 7 inch capacitive touchscreen Gorilla Glass display with a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels. It is powered by a 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 processor. The tablet runs Android 2.2 operating system. Other specifications include 16GB of storage, WiFi 802.11b/g/n, Bluetooth, GPS and HSPA+ mobile broadband modem.
There are two cameras - a 1.3 megapixel camera on the front side and a 5 megapixel camera with auto focus and flash on the rear side. The tablet ships with a 2780mAh battery which reportedly gets only around 6 hours of runtime.
The Streak 7 was recently reviewed by a number of tech blogs. The reviews have at best been be lousy. Nevertheless, the tablet is reasonably priced and that might attract some buyers.
The Dell Streak 7 has a 7 inch capacitive touchscreen Gorilla Glass display with a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels. It is powered by a 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 processor. The tablet runs Android 2.2 operating system. Other specifications include 16GB of storage, WiFi 802.11b/g/n, Bluetooth, GPS and HSPA+ mobile broadband modem.
There are two cameras - a 1.3 megapixel camera on the front side and a 5 megapixel camera with auto focus and flash on the rear side. The tablet ships with a 2780mAh battery which reportedly gets only around 6 hours of runtime.
The Streak 7 was recently reviewed by a number of tech blogs. The reviews have at best been be lousy. Nevertheless, the tablet is reasonably priced and that might attract some buyers.
LG G SLATE COMING THIS SPRING, CAN SHOOT 3D VIDEOS
T-Mobile has released detailed specifications of the upcoming LG G-Slate Android tablet. The LG G-Slate was announced at CES. The tablet has a 1GHz dual core NVIDIA Tegra 2 processor, 32GB of built-in storage, a gyroscope and an accelerometer. Most importantly, it has two cameras on the back side. One of these can be used to shoot 1080p HD video in 3D.To view the recorded 3D clips on the tablet's display, you will need glasses, though. The second camera on the back is rated at 5 megapixel. It is for shooting stills and has an LED flash. There is a third camera on the front side for video calls.
The G-Slate has an 8.9 inch display. It will run the tablet optimized Android Honeycomb operating system. There is still no word on pricing, but the tablet is tipped for a launch this spring.
The G-Slate has an 8.9 inch display. It will run the tablet optimized Android Honeycomb operating system. There is still no word on pricing, but the tablet is tipped for a launch this spring.
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