MID Concept netbook

If you ask me I like handhelds quiet a lot.In this note mid netbook really got me interested.I think it might drawn some eyes of those who r not a great fan of netbooks.
Right off the bat it is plain to see that this thing just looks good. It's designed more like a slider phone—which opens up portable possibilities beyond that of a simple netbook.









Features:


1.QWERTY keyboard with trackball
2. wide LCD touchscreen
3. 7 "action buttons" that can be used when the device is closed
4. two USB slots
5. microphone and audio input
6. SD card reader
7. stereo speakers
8. docking connector.

HTC Shift

HTC Shift Unvield



The lucky lovelies over at pcdebolso.com managed to acquire (let’s ask no questions) a pre-production HTC Shift for five days, and proceeded to examine it both from the perspective as a compact, Vista-running UMPC and as a large, Windows Mobile-running PDA. Unsurprisingly, perhaps, the Shift although impressive doesn’t manage to succeed 100% in both categories; what is surprising, though, is that it appears HTC have made some bizarre concessions which in certain cases render the Shift less useful than a far cheaper device.





Vista, it seems, has been HTC’s main priority, and in that capacity the Shift functions as expected. With an 800MHz processor and 1GB of RAM it’s never going to be accused of running too fast, but the 40GB drive is healthy and the screen - running at a native 800 x 480 - clear and bright. What’s less impressive is the PDA flipside: the Shift runs a pared down version of Windows Mobile 6 that doesn’t even take advantage of the VGA screen, chopping off the sides with black bars (as in the image above). Similarly bizarre is that while in WM mode the only connectivity method is HSDPA - Bluetooth and WiFi, accessible to Vista, fail to show up in the connectivity manager. That means you could be in your office, surrounded by rich, syrupy WiFi, yet unable to connect because cellular signals don’t reach you.

Of course, it’s possible that one or more of the confusing decisions HTC has made will be changed in the production version; as it is, the Shift looks to be a passable UMPC but not the dual-mode, best-of-both-worlds device we were initially promised.

Willcom D4 - world’s first Intel Atom powered UMPC and runs Vista

Willcom D4 (aka Sharp-built WS016SH) will be the world’s smallest QWERTY device that is capable of running Windows Vista Home Premium SP1, when it’s making its debut in Japan in June this year.


The Willcom D4 measures only 188 x 84 x 25.9mm and weights 470grams. The little device runs on the Intel 1.3GHz Atom processor, making its size so small, with pretty low power consumption and comparatively better battery conservation.

The Willcom D4 features a sliding / tilting 5-inch, 262k color, LED-backlit 1,024 x 600 touchscreen and a 64-key QWERTY keyboard. It’s got 1GB built-in RAM, a 1.8-inch 40GB disk, 2 megapixel camera, Bluetooth 2.0+EDR, microSD slot, HD audio codec with mono-speaker, n memory.

It comes with the Opera browser and equipped with wireless connectivities including the Japanese PHS (W-SIM) and 802.11b/g WiFi. And there is an optional Bluetooth companion handset that allows you to make calls over W-SIM.

The little device will be sold in Japan for about $1,254 and you’ll get to pay less if you’re willing to be bound by a 2-year contract. Willcom is reportedly experimenting with Android, so this device would possibly be released in an alternate form later this year or early 2009.

Xda Flint Handheld By O2 For The Education Market

Personally I’m a big fan of handhelds, but I think netbooks are better and these devices already outran them. However, O2 doesn’t think that and they re-branded the HTC Advantage X7510 into the Xda Flint, and now the handheld has a new modern and more stylish design with a detachable keyboard.

The Xda Flint is based on Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional, and it features an angled 5-inch touchscreen, a 3.0-megapixel camera with autofocus and flash, built-in GPS, 16GB of internal flash memory, Wireless LAN 802.11b & g, Bluetooth 2.0, GSM/GPRS/EDGE Quad-band (850/900/1800/1900), and also HSDPA.

According to O2, the Xda Flint is destined for youngsters & education market, as the handheld can read eBooks, take e-notes, and it has access to the Internet. Also, the re-branded Xda Flint supports Microsoft’s Direct Push Email, Internet Explorer, and Opera 9 browser, which were all well optimized for the touchscreen use.

What do you think? Would you choose this type of handheld over a netbook? Well, for there moment there no words about pricing or availability, but I can’t say that I’m not waiting for the Xda Flint to enter on the market.



DEVICE SPECIFICATION
Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional
Modern, stylish design
Detachable keyboard
Angled 5” screen touch screen
3.0 megapixel color camera with autofocus and flash light
In-Built GPS
MP3 and Video playback
Wireless LAN 802.11b & g
HSDPA
Bluetooth ® V2.0
GSM/GPRS/EDGE Quad-band (850/900/1800/1900)
Supports Microsoft Direct Push Email solution
Internet Explorer and newly-included Opera 9 browser - optimized for touch-screen use
16GB of internal flash memory to hold more files than before

e-Loam F7 UMPC Looks Delicious While Being Functional

It has been a while since I’ve seen an interesting UMPC therefore I’m very glad that I ran onto the Shenzhen e-Loam F7. This handheld has an attractive design, but like always the most important thing about a device is its functionality. The e-Loam F7 UMPC is based on Windows XP, a 1.2GHz VIA C7-M proc, 1GB of RAM, and a 7-inch touchscreen.

The spec list continues with a 0.3-megapixel webcam, WiFi, Bluetooth, 2-in-1 card reader, but I have a couple of doubts regarding the Shenzhen e-Loam F7 – in the product description you can find a “8G BSANISK hard disk” , but I think this is a typo and the handheld features a 80GB hard-drive. The other doubt about the e-Loam F7 UMPC is that I don’t know if it features an optical mouse or not.

I guess there is still enough time to find out about it, and also I would definitely like to hear something about pricing and availability.

OQO Announces the OQO model 2+ with Intel® Atom(TM) Processor, World's First PC OLED Display, and Worldwide 3G Capability

 



Ultimate Productivity MID meets the increasing demand from highly mobile users for a powerful, pocketable, and affordable device

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7 -- Pepcom, CES -- OQO, Inc., creator of the world's smallest fully-functional Windows Vista(R) PC, today announced the new model 2+ with Intel(R) Atom(TM) processor, the world's first PC OLED display, and worldwide 3G capability. Based on the 1.86GHz Intel Atom processor and 2GB RAM, the OQO model 2+ offers performance up to twice as fast as its predecessor and includes an embedded touchscreen for easier input. For mobile professionals who need to work on the go, the model 2+ features Qualcomm's Gobi(TM) global mobile Internet solution, which supports both of the world's leading 3G cellular standards. These new features enable users to access their enterprise networks, business productivity applications, and the full Internet around the world. The OQO model 2+ will be available in the first half of 2009 with pricing starting at $999.

"OQO is excited to work with Intel to deliver the highest performing Mobile Internet Device (MID) on the market today," said Bob Rosin, senior vice president of sales and marketing at OQO. "The OQO model 2+ provides enterprise users and prosumers with everything needed to get all their work done as they move through their day -- full Windows, complete mobility, and immediate access to information and applications from wherever they are."

"The Intel Atom processor is rapidly becoming the foundation for Mobile Internet Devices that require high performance and full Internet to run the broad set of enterprise and consumer applications," said Gary Willihnganz, director of marketing for the Ultra Mobility Group at Intel Corporation. "The OQO model 2+ is an excellent example in the Productivity MID category which combines the high performance, low power characteristics of Intel Atom with OQO's proven system-level innovation in delivering small, pocketable devices."

The new OQO model 2+ is the world's first PC with an embedded Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) display. Users will immediately notice the screen's dramatically increased brightness and contrast with better outdoor readability, greater range of colors, extremely wide viewing angles, faster response time, and improved battery life. The integrated touchscreen is more robust and accurate than conventional touchscreen technology and supports stylus as well as finger-based input.

Key new features of the OQO model 2+ include:

-- Twice as Fast(1)
- Available with 1.86GHz Intel Atom Z540 CPU offering up to 2x improvement in processor-intensive tasks, and up to 5x improvement in multimedia performance
- Intel(R) System Controller Hub US15W with integrated 3D graphics
- DirectX 9 and H.264 video decode support in hardware
- 2GB RAM with 2.7x improvement in memory performance
- Up to 20% increase in battery life (3.5 hours with standard battery, and 7 hours with double capacity battery)
-- Vivid and intuitive interface
- World's first PC with integrated Active Matrix OLED display; 1,000,000 to 1 contrast ratio, color gamut up to 110% of NTSC, 0.01ms response time, and viewing-angle free
- Embedded high-grade touchscreen for stylus and finger-based input
- Native resolution of highly-readable 800x480 with 1024x768 and 1000x600 interpolated modes
-- World-capable
- Featuring Qualcomm's Gobi solution, the industry's only embedded multi-mode module with support for CDMA2000 EV-DO and HSPA
- Designed to operate on Verizon Wireless and Sprint networks using Qualcomm's hybrid mode alternative solution as well as SIM-based networks including GPRS/EDGE, UMTS, and HSPA with speeds up to 7.2Mbps
- Penta-band antenna for world coverage
- Verizon Wireless customers can roam internationally on the Vodafone network
- World keyboard and global power supply
-- Eco-friendly
- RoHS compliant (reduced mercury, lead, cadmium, and other hazardous materials)
- Ultra low power consumption
-- Secure
- Computrace(R) support in BIOS for asset tracking and recovery and remote data delete
- LoJack(R) for Laptops(TM) support
-- TPM v1.2 embedded security
-- Affordable for every professional segment
- Pricing starts at $999

Like its predecessor, the OQO model 2+ weighs less than one pound and is truly pocketable with dimensions of 5.6"(W) x 3.3"(H) x 1.0"(D) and the best-in-class integrated backlit thumb keyboard. The model 2+ supports large external displays up to 1920x1200 with HDMI/DVI and VGA interfaces, offers Wi-Fi(R) 802.11a/b/g and Bluetooth 2.0 with EDR, and is compatible with the full range of OQO model 02/e2 accessories. These include the OQO docking station with embedded dual layer DVD+/-RW/RAM drive, as well as a wide range of cases, GPS and vehicle mounts, and power solutions including standard and extended batteries and the OQO air/auto power adapter.

Full specifications of the OQO model 2+ are available at: http://www.oqo.com/products/model2+/s...

OQO pioneered the ultra mobile PC category and has led the market with each innovation. With today's announcement, OQO has further established its commitment to leading this growing category and providing mobility solutions for worldwide markets.

With pricing starting at $999, the OQO model 2+ is available to order immediately from OQO and through OQO enterprise, government, and retail sales channels listed at http://www.oqo.com/. First deliveries are expected to take place during the first half of 2009.

About OQO

Based in San Francisco, California, OQO, Inc. has redefined mobile computing with its groundbreaking products, including the new ultra-small, powerful, ergonomic, and connected OQO model 2+. With an award-winning design, the OQO model 2+ is a full-featured computer running standard Windows XP or Windows Vista and a pocketable, dockable form-factor that gives the mobile professional true Anytime/Anywhere Productivity(TM).

"OQO", the OQO logo, and "Anytime/Anywhere Productivity" are trademarks of OQO, Inc. Other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. (C) 2009 OQO, Inc. All rights reserved.

(1) Benchmarking data based on tests using MobileMark(R) 2007 version 1.05 and SiSoftware Sandra 2008. Comparisons are to the OQO model 02 computer.

Sony E-Book reader PRS-700

Begin a new chapter with the PRS-700BC Reader Digital Book. Boasting an impressive 6.0-inch, touch screen display, this Reader uses paper-like E Ink® technology which makes it easier to read, even in bright-light situations. In addition to a built-in light, there's an interactive touch screen that lets you turn pages with the slide of a finger or activate the bookmark. You can also create annotations with a virtual keyboard, highlight text with a stylus pen, search for text in your digital book, and easily adjust the font size. A faster processor gives you quicker response times when opening content or turning pages. Ideal for travelers or people who like to read while on the go, the PRS-700BC holds approximately 350 digital books. 

Note: Use of companion eBook Store limited to U.S. and Canadian residents. Certain titles may not be available for download based on place of residence.
6" Display1 with touchscreen display

A sizeable 6-inch display with touchscreen technology lets you interact with the Reader just like a real book. A simple movement with the slide of a finger lets you easily turn pages or activate the bookmark. It also features a virtual keyboard that can be used for quick annotation or search.
E-ink paper-like touchscreen display

The Sony® PRS-700 Reader Digital Book provides a unique way to experience reading. With its impressive 6-inch display1 , utilizing breakthrough E Ink® technology that's almost paper-like, making it easy to read, even outdoors in the sunshine. In addition, the screen allows for high contrast and high resolution, with a near 180º viewing angle.
Built-in LED reading light

A built-in LED reading light gives you the ability to read at night or other low-light situations without bothering others around you.
Search, annotation, and highlighting capabilities

The Reader Digital Book features annotation, highlighting, and search applications that heighten your reading experience. You can easily make annotations in your digital book with the virtual keyboard or highlight text you want to remember by selecting it with a stylus pen or with the touch of your finger. You can even search for text on your Reader with the virtual keyboard or by highlighting text.
Adjustable text sizes

The Reader Digital Book allows you to zoom in and out as well as adjust the text into 5 different sizes.
Ultra Portable

The Reader Digital Book offers a unique, on-the-go reading experience and is the perfect travel companion. Measuring 0.4-inches thin10 and weighing just 10 ounces7 (without cover), the Reader is more compact and lightweight than many paperbacks.
Long battery life

While most portable electronics lose power after only a few hours, the Reader Digital Book lets you turn up to 7,500 continuous pages (or up to two weeks of reading) on a single charge2.
Internal storage

The Reader Digital Book gives you the freedom to leave that stack of paperbacks at home. The internal memory will hold approximately 350 average size digital books4 and hundreds more with optional removable Memory Stick Duo™ media or SD memory cards.
Thousands of eBooks available

The Reader Digital Book allows you to search, browse, discover, and buy new releases, classics, and popular digital book titles from The eBook Store from Sony3 and other participating Websites3 . You can even go to other sites that have DRM Free eBooks in file formats supported by the Reader5 . This translates into an unbelievable amount of content suitable for the Reader.
Multiple formats supported

The Sony® PRS-700 Reader Digital Book isn't just about using it to read digital books. With the included eBook Library 2.5 PC Software, you can easily transfer Adobe® PDF documents6 , Microsoft® Word documents, BBeB® format, and other text file formats to the Reader5 . It also supports EPUB/ADEPT and connection with Adobe Digital Editions. You can even play back unsecured MP3s and AAC audio files. (Headphones not included.)

Axiotron modbook

Apple has long neglected the tablet community by not offering a tablet PC of its own. But now, another company has stepped into the breach with its take on a Mac-based tablet PC. The Axiotron Modbook ($2,629 list) is certain to pique the interest of Mac-based graphics designers and illustrators who prefer to work with a pen rather than a keyboard. Axiotron literally took an Apple MacBook 13-inch (Core 2 Duo), ripped off the lid, and fused a Wacom digitizer screen to the chassis. The Modbook is a slate tablet (rather than a convertible tablet that would have had the benefit of an integrated keyboard), but it's a better alternative to plugging a Wacom device into an Apple computer. This slate tablet doesn't come cheap, though, and it's available only through Other World Computing, an online Mac retailer.

Read the Axiotron Modbook full review
 

Axiotron Inc

http://www.axiotron.com
Price as Tested: $2,629.00 List
Type: Media, Tablet
Operating System: Mac OS X
Processor Name: Intel Core 2 Duo T7500
Processor Speed: 2.2 GHz
RAM: 4 GB
Weight: 5.4 lb
Screen Size: 13.3 inches
Screen Size Type: widescreen
Graphics Card: Intel GMA X3100
Storage Capacity: 120 GB
Networking Options: 802.11n
Primary Optical Drive: Dual-Layer DVD+/-RW

E-Book Reader By Amazon

Isn’t it a bit annoying reading a book online? I mean, firstly, you don’t have the actual feeling of holding a real book in your hands, not to mention that your eyes get more tired then they normally would have. Well, now you can forget all about that because from now on Amazon has released their E-Book reader.

The release of this device by Amazon is a very good approach to the market, having in view that this company is one of the largest book selling ones over the Internet. So this move is a sure strengthener for their business.

The Mobipocket software with which the gadget is equipped with provides the owner to directly download from the Internet to the reader, thus saving precious time and giving the book-lover the chance to actually hold something real in their hand when entering the fantasy world of books
The expected price for the public would be around 400$ but the cost cost for the continuous Internet access is unpredictable so on the whole this gadget could come to a fairly high cost.

Lenovo's IdeaPad U8 makes official Olympics debut

 
Well, there it is, the Lenovo IdeaPad U8 launched official at the Beijing games just as we expected. With the launch come the final specs for this Asia-only MID we've seen incubating now for months: 4.8-inch touchscreen; the latest, sub-3 watt processor from Intel (uh hem, that'd be a Silverthorn-class Atom); 350-grams and 21 x 173 x 84-mm; up to 2GB memory and 6GB flash storage; dual-cameras; support for China Multimedia Mobile Broadcasting (CMMB) digital television via that protruding USB dongle; and 802.11b/g WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS, EDGE data and China-specific TD-SCDMA 3G, presumably. Expect to see it trotted out tomorrow as Intel's San Francisco IDF gets underway -- with any luck, it'll be sporting WiMAX for a North American / European release.

Lenovo's IdeaPad U8 makes official Olympics debut

Well, there it is, the Lenovo IdeaPad U8 launched official at the Beijing games just as we expected. With the launch come the final specs for this Asia-only MID we've seen incubating now for months: 4.8-inch touchscreen; the latest, sub-3 watt processor from Intel (uh hem, that'd be a Silverthorn-class Atom); 350-grams and 21 x 173 x 84-mm; up to 2GB memory and 6GB flash storage; dual-cameras; support for China Multimedia Mobile Broadcasting (CMMB) digital television via that protruding USB dongle; and 802.11b/g WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS, EDGE data and China-specific TD-SCDMA 3G, presumably. Expect to see it trotted out tomorrow as Intel's San Francisco IDF gets underway -- with any luck, it'll be sporting WiMAX for a North American / European release.