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Lenovo unveils IdeaPad U1 Hybrid
The China-based computer maker Lenovo on Tuesday unveiled its new innovative device--IdeaPad U1; an 11.6-inch multi-touch notebook, just ahead of the Consumer Electronics Shows.
by Priyanka - January 5, 2010 - comments
According to Lenovo, the IdeaPad U1 can function as two separate devices: As a laptop that runs on Microsoft’s Windows 7 and uses Intel’s microprocessor; or the user can detach the 11.6-inch screen and easily turn it into a tablet. It has all the features of PC, including a Linux-based OS and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chip.
Lenovo has used a new technology called ‘Hybrid Switch’ that will allow the users “seamless toggling” between the two microprocessors.
As per the company, user can browse the Web in laptop mode and can continue from the same point without disruption even if they decide to switch to tablet mode by detaching 11.6-inch screen.
Or as Liu Jun, a Lenovo senior vice president, puts it in a press release: “The IdeaPad U1 hybrid notebook is a game-changing technology in the PC industry that lets user switch their PC experience within a single device to match their dynamic lifestyle.”
Known features, availability, and price of Lenovo IdeaPad U1 Hybrid
- In-built Wi-Fi, VGA, HDMI, Ethernet (RJ-45) and Bluetooth functions
- Three USB ports
- 4-in-1 reader (secure Digital Card, Memory Stick, Multi-Media Card, and Memory Stick PRO)
- Entire system weighs around 1.7 kg, where laptop weighs at 3.8 pounds while the detachable tablet weighs 1.6 pounds
- Battery life: 8 hours of run time in tablet mode and 6 hours in laptop
- Both the parts in the machine have separate hardware specifications: the device is equipped with 6GB internal flash drive, Snapdragon integrated graphics and 512 MB DDR1 RAM
- 4 GB DDR3 RAM, 128 GB SSD and Intel GMA graphics
It has been reported that the hybrid tablet will be shipped sometime around June, 2010, and will cost the customers $999.
Readers reactions to the announcement
People on online forums are posting mixed reactions about the Lenovo’s Hybrid table--IdeaPad U1.
An online reader Head Scratcher on www.liliputing.com wrote, “I browse in tablet mode, then decide to post something in a forum, so I attach the screen back to the keyboard to type. Now I'm in a different OS, so I don't have the page open anymore... Is it just me or this two-computers-in-one is the dumbest idea ever?”
Another online reader sheff ne posted on www.news.cnet.com, “$1000 for a 12 inch netbook? And a tablet? HM... Get a $300 netbook and a $600 (predicted) iSlate and you arrive to about the same price. The only problem is why would I need both?”