Amidst major announcements in Computex 2019, Microsoft let a teaser out for its future plans on the software front. The long-awaited lite version of Windows OS (for the likes of Chromebooks) may or may not be included in the definition of Microsoft’s “modern” operating system.
This modern OS as stated by Microsoft is not just a software version and rather it is a benchmark that would define the future of operating systems. With the functionality of the OS at its essence, the ‘seamless’ word was used quite a lot by Microsoft on stage and seamless updates being at the centre of it. Windows updates have improved exponentially over the years as promised by Microsoft but the company is not stopping there. It is now seeking to make the entire process occur in the background, never requiring the user to actively check for updates.
Current iterations of Windows OS handle software updates very differently, with comments pointing towards the similarities in relation to Chrome OS. The ‘modern OS’ is also supposed to be highly secure from the ground up. “The state is separated from the operating system; compute is separated from the applications.” This line by Microsoft’s Spokesperson points towards cloud computing at a level the industry has not yet been comfortable with but is a step towards the future which the company has kept in mind. “Sustained performance” as Microsoft puts it that is “always connected” to have zero interruptions. Sharing the workload with cloud solutions online to enhance user experience on devices.
All of these “enablers’ will be supplemented by an AI. In other words prediction based algorithm to get end results faster for the User. Microsoft there on goes to mention other sci-fi, futuristic but not far-fetched input methods such as voice, touch, and gaze, apart from the conventional mouse and keyboard combo. All this in a light form factor that adds to the mobility of the machine on which the OS is loaded.
No finer details have been revealed as of yet. All that anyone has to go on is the teaser dropped today. The concept may still seem far away but more concrete information should soon follow in the coming months either through official channels or in the form of leaks and rumours.
Intel was the first to coin the term ‘Ultrabook’ for high-end subnotebook computers. Spending millions of dollars into a marketing strategy aimed for the industry’s latest most powerful laptops that were less bulky without compromising on battery life overall. Project Athena as announced by Intel seeks to revisit this old definition and make true on certain promises left undelivered.
The Ultrabook laptops had unintentionally brought with them an industry standard demanding lightweight, thinner dimensions, effective performance and battery life. The Industry had, on the contrary, thrived with these new set of restrictive parameters that gave birth to a new breed of ultra-thin laptops capable of rivalling some of their desktop counterparts.
Gone were the days of plastics. These new machines now sported a more premium metallic form factor and were installed with new hardware that made the lag that had always accompanied laptops a less frequent occurrence. Powerful laptops like HP Spectre x360 and XPS 13 by Dell pulled ahead in the competition.
Intel has dedicated itself to challenge the norm again by taking laptops even further with Project Athena. However, unlike last time, Intel did not showcase a tag or name like ‘Ultrabook’ to market to the world. Project Athena’s focus is not on an inexpensive marketing gimmick but to hunt for the big industry-wide lies that have pervaded the market since its inception. Battery life sits at the forefront of such a lie.
Project Athena sets the minimal benchmark for laptops to deliver 9 hours of real-world battery life while browsing over the internet on Wi-Fi, at a brightness of 250 nits. Laptops have woefully failed to deliver on the longer battery life that had been promised before and thinner laptops have a stronger tendency to skimp out on the said feature. Manufacturers that advertise their products with 24 hours of battery life, with video playback that barely puts any strain on the CPU while Wi-FI is turned off and brightness at its lowest, do not portray an accurate real-life scenario of daily use.
Battery life is just the start. Project Athena will require a laptop to also boot from sleep within a second and be ready for web browsing in 2 seconds flat while having the same performance output regardless of whether the laptop is plugged in or running on battery. Intel set the basic hardware requirements with touchscreen displays, accurate trackpads, ample amount of RAM (8GB) and an NVMe SSD (256GB) equipped within the laptop.
Intel, taking it upon itself to enforce the standards set by them to actually satisfy the consumers’ needs. The company promises to discourage practices that have manufacturers cheap out on essential parts of a system. ‘Cheating’ as Intel put it will not be tolerated and the ‘Ultrabook’ brand will have its standards set high. Project Athena is not an advertisement or marketing scheme that the users shall ever encounter, dedicating themselves not to be in the face of every consumer but guaranteeing a good experience that they will feel.
There is just one glaringly obvious problem. OEMs and manufacturers have no real incentive or reason to actually adhere to these standards that may lead to the rise of the industry standards. Unlike what Project Athena is made to be, an industry standard for every laptop device to follow, the aforementioned OEMs will simply submit those laptops which are bound to pass the tests. The same laptops which are top of the line and cost just high.
Project Athena is at its infant stage and Intel may in the future decide to incorporate some marketing strategy and brand name for the campaign to follow it. This comes along with Intel’s announcement of its 10th Gen Intel Core Processors that will power the latest generation of Ultrabooks.
Samsung has launched its new ultrabook, the Samsung Notebook 9 Pen and three upgraded variants of the Notebook 9. The pricing all the variants and the new Notebook 9 Pen will be announced closer to the release date which is late-December. All the ultrabooks will run Windows 10 out of the box.
The Notebook 9 (2018) is an upgrade over the Samsung Notebook 9 with three variants ranging from 13.3-inch to 15-inch screen size. The Notebook 9 (2018), with a weight of up to 1.29 kg and a thickness of 15.4mm, is also one of the lightest and thinnest notebooks in its category.
The 2018 variants of the Samsung Notebook 9 have a 13.3-inch (900X3T & 900X3U) and 15-inch (900X5T, 900X5U, and Discreet Graphics 900X5T) Full HD RealViewTouch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 px. It will be available in two colour variants, Titan Silver and Crush White.
Under the hood, the Notebooks have the 8th generation Intel Core i7 processor, up to 16GB DDR4 RAM, up to 1TB NVMe PCIe SSD, and Intel HD graphics. The 15-inch variant offers an option of upgrading to a 2GB GDDR5 Nvidia GeForce MX150 graphics card. The Notebook 9 (2018) has a fingerprint sensor, backlit keyboard, and a precision touchpad.
Samsung claims that the 75Wh hexacell battery on the Notebook 9 (2018) is its “largest and most powerful battery placed inside a notebook.” It also supports fast charging for the company’s claimed “always on” capabilities.
In terms of connectivity, it includes two USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI port, microSD storage, and a single USB Type-C port.
The Samsung Notebook 9 Pen has a 13-inch (930QAA) RealViewTouch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 px resolution. The Notebook 9 Pen will only be available in Titan Light colour variant.
The 2-in-1 ultrabook has the 8th generation Intel Core i7 processor, up to 16GB DDR4 RAM, up to 512GB NVMe PCIe SSD, and Intel HD graphics. The Notebook 9 Pen has a bundled Integrated S Pen, along with a fingerprint sensor, backlit keyboard, and precision touchpad. It also has an IR 720P camera.
The new S Pen is battery-free and built into the device for immediate use. Samsung claims it can recognise 4,096 levels of pressure with a fine 0.7mm tip and convenient tilt detection to allow a more natural writing and drawing experience.
For connectivity, it has an HDMI port, a USB Type C port, a USB 3.0 port and a microSD card slot.
Samsung has primarily focused on smartphones and tablets in the past few years. The N otebook 9 marks the return of Samsung’s notebook business, pricing will be key, stay tuned for updates on launches in India.
Fujitsu Tuesday launched two Ultrabooks in the Indian market, LIFEBOOK U772 and LIFEBOOK UH 572.
The 14-inch Lifebook U772 weighs approximately 1.4 kg and is 15.6 mm thin. It comes with a red or silver shell and frameless display. It offers optional built-in 3G/UMTS or 4G/LTE support to guarantee mobile connectivity even when outside the range of Wi-Fi hotspots. Its prices start from Rs 75,900.
On the other hand, the Lifebook UH572 features a 13.3-inch model. It weighs around 1.6 kg and is 18mm thin. Its standard features include an anti-glare display for ergonomic working, optional 3G/UMTS support and advanced theft Protection. Its prices start from Rs 65000.
[quote]”With the industry’s first business Ultrabooks we have combined the best of today’s mobile computing technology with the essential security, manageability and connectivity features required by business. Fujitsu’s Ultrabooks add a new offering to our broad LIFEBOOK family and prove that you can have all your critical features innovated in a compelling, ultra-slim mobile computing device,” says Alok Sharma, Country Manager, Workplace Systems, Fujitsu India.[/quote]
Before the elusive HP Spectre could make it to India, HP has already launched a new Ultrabook called the HP Spectre XT. This new Ultraboox, however, uses a different design approach, 13-inch, aluminum-shelled Envy Spectre XT. It also offers a new look at pricing the original Spectre costs $1400, whereas the Spectre XT starts at $1000. The new XT will also come with the new Ivy-Bridge platform and measure in at only 14.3mm thick at the thickest point, 128GB SSD and a battery rated for eight hours of usable juice.
Another new add-on HP’s Envy-branded Ultrabooks and “Sleekbooks” (its hard will all these variating names) will be available in 14- and and 15.6-inch measuring in at a 19.8-millimeters thick at the thickest.
The difference between the ultrabook and the so called Sleekbook is that the former will be powered by second and third-generation Intel Core processors, and the latter by AMD’s APUs. Promising a day’s worth of battery life, 4GB of RAM and 1366×768 pixel screen across all models.
Spectre XT will be available on June 8 for US $1000 (Rs. 54000), the 14 and 15.6-inch ultrabooks will be available starting today for $750 (Rs. 40,500) and $800 (Rs 45,900), respectively. The 14-inch Sleekbook will also be available today starting at $700 (Rs. 37,800).
All these prices and availabilities are currently for the US Market, with no information on global launches.
Ports include: Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.0 (1), HDMI
Dimensions: 327 x 221 x 14.5 mm
Weight: 3.07 lbs.
Battery life: up to eight hours
Included software: two-year subscription to Norton Internet Security, full versions of Adobe Photoshop and Premiere Elements 10
Beats Audio with quad speakers
HP CoolSense technology
HP TrueVision HD Webcam
One-year subscription to Absolute Data Protect
Concierge phone line dedicated exclusively to HP ENVY Spectre owners
HP ENVY Sleekbook (14-inch model)
Starts at $699.99; available on May 9
Operating system: Windows 7 Premium (64-bit)
Display: 14 inches (1366 x 768 resolution)
CPU: available with second- or third-generation Intel Core processors
Memory: 4GB 1600MHz DDR3
Storage: 500GB HDD
Connectivity: 802.11a/g/n
Ports include: Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.0 (2), USB 2.0 (1), HDMI, SD reader
Weight: starting at 4 pounds
Thickness: “as thin as 19.8 mm”
Battery life: up to eight hours
Beats Audio with dual speakers and a subwoofer
HP CoolSense technology
HP TrueVision HD Webcam
HP Protect Smart
HP ENVY Ultrabook (14-inch model)
Starts at $749.99; available on May 9
Operating system: Windows 7 Premium (64-bit)
Display: 14 inches (1366 x 768 resolution)
CPU: available with second- or third-generation Intel Core processors
Memory: 4GB 1600MHz DDR3
Storage: 32GB (cache) mSATA with 500GB HDD
Connectivity: 802.11a/g/n
Ports include: Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.0 (2), USB 2.0 (1), HDMI, SD reader
Weight: starting at 4 pounds
Thickness: “as thin as 19.8 mm”
Battery life: up to eight hours
Beats Audio with dual speakers and a subwoofer
HP CoolSense technology
HP TrueVision HD Webcam
HP Protect Smart
Intel Technologies: Rapid Start, Identity Protection Technology, Smart Response and
Smart Connect Technologies
HP ENVY Sleekbook (15.6-inch model)
Starts at $599.99; available on June 20
Operating system: Windows 7 Premium (64-bit)
Display: 15.6 inches (1366 x 768 resolution)
CPU: a second-generation AMD APU
Memory: 4GB 1600MHz DDR3
Storage: 320GB HDD
Connectivity: 802.11a/g/n
Ports include: Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.0 (2), USB 2.0 (1), HDMI, SD reader
Weight: starting at 4 pounds
Thickness: “as thin as 19.8 mm”
Battery life: up to nine hours
Beats Audio with dual speakers and a subwoofer
HP CoolSense technology
HP TrueVision HD Webcam
HP Protect Smart
HP ENVY Ultrabook (15.6-inch model)
Starts at $799.99; available on May 9
Operating system: Windows 7 Premium (64-bit)
Display: 15.6 inches (1366 x 768 resolution)
CPU: available with second- or third-generation Intel Core processors
Memory: 4GB 1600MHz DDR3
Storage: 32GB (cache) mSATA with 500GB HDD
Connectivity: 802.11a/g/n
Ports include: Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.0 (2), USB 2.0 (1), HDMI, SD reader
Weight: starting at 4 pounds
Thickness: “as thin as 19.8 mm”
Battery life: up to nine hours
Beats Audio with dual speakers and a subwoofer
HP CoolSense technology
HP TrueVision HD Webcam
HP Protect Smart
Intel Technologies: Rapid Start, Identity Protection Technology, Smart Response and
Smart Connect Technologies
[/toggle_box]
[toggle_box title=”Press Release” width=”560″]
HP Expands Thin and Light Collection with New Ultrabook Systems and Sleekbooks
SHANGHAI, May 9, 2012 – HP today expanded its award-winning notebook portfolio with thin and light Ultrabook systems and Sleekbooks packed with the latest technologies for both consumer and business demands. New additions to the HP collection include:
– TheHPENVYSpectreXTisanultramobilepremiumUltrabookthatdeliversanoverall premium experience with extraordinary design and performance.
– Offering both style and substance,HP ENVY Sleekbooks and HP ENVY Ultrabook systems provide the ultimate entertainment experience in 14-inch and 15.6-inch diagonal display options.
– The enterprise-ready HP EliteBook Folio 9470m was built from the ground up to be everything a business Ultrabook should be, with the security, manageability and reliability features IT demands.
“Building on the success of the HP Folio13 and HP ENVY14 Spectre, we are now offering the most comprehensive Ultrabook portfolio in the industry,” said James Mouton, senior vice president and general manager, Personal Computer Global Business Unit, HP. “Our expanded portfolio of HP Ultrabook systems and HP Sleekbooks for both consumers and businesses delivers uncompromised performance, quality and entertainment experiences within distinctive designs.”
“The Ultrabook is quickly becoming the must-have solution for anyone who wants performance, responsiveness and a secure computing experience in a thin, elegant form factor,” said Kirk Skaugen, vice president and general manager, PC Client Group, Intel. “HP’s impressive line-up of consumer and business Ultrabooks deliver across the board.”
The HP ENVY SpectreXT, HP ENVY Sleekbooks, HP ENVY Ultrabook systems and the HP EliteBook Folio join the HP thin and light portfolio, which also includes the recently introduced and award-winning HP Folio13 and HP ENVY14 Spectre.
The new HP ENVY notebooks also boast exclusive HP Innovations for an enhanced user experience:
– BeatsAudio-a high-performance technology developed by HP and Beats by Dr. Dre-delivers big sound in a small package, while HP CoolSense technology automatically adjusts performance and internal fan settings for a noticeably cooler PC.
– HP Imagepad provides precise multifinger touch and gesture navigation, and the HP TrueVision HD Webcam produces bright, clean high-definition (HD) images.
– Optional backlit keyboards are ideal for computing in low-light conditions.
Thinner design. Smarter than ever.
Built with a mix of premium materials, the HP ENVY SpectreXT boasts an all-metal design with stark lines that contrast with a soft texture. Crafted for mobility, the HP SpectreXT measures 14.5 millimeters (mm) thin, weighs 3.07 pounds and includes a 13.3-inch HD diagonal display with a slim bezel line. It also includes 128 gigabytes (GB) of solid state storage and up to eight hours of battery life. A full array of ports, including Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.0 and HDMI, provide more ways to network without compromising size.
The HP SpectreXT supplies the speed users need, with support of an ultrafast mSATA solid state drive and Intel® Rapid Start Technology allowing for quick boot and resume times.
Powered by the latest Intel Core processors, the HP SpectreXT also includes Intel Smart Connect Technology, which automatically updates email while the notebook is in sleep mode.
The HP SpectreXT offers a performance-tuned software image, full versions of Adobe Photoshop® Elements 10 and Adobe Premiere Elements 10. A concierge phone line for technical support is dedicated exclusively to HP ENVY Spectre users.
To safeguard confidential data and thwart cyber threats, the HP SpectreXT is preloaded with one year of Absolute Data Protect; two years of Norton Internet Security; and Intel Identity Protection, which provides advanced security.
Designed for rich audio quality, the HP SpectreXT features Beats Audio over quad speakers and via the headphone jack.
HP ENVY. Up for anything.
As thin as 19.8 mm and starting at less than 4 pounds, the new HP ENVY notebooks feature a soft-touch, slip-resistant base in black or red, making them easy to grab and go.
The HP ENVY Ultrabook, available in 14- and 15.6-inch diagonal display sizes, includes the latest Intel Core processors and offers up to eight or nine hours of battery life, respectively. The Ultrabook systems include an mSATA solid state drive along with Intel Rapid Start, Intel Identity Protection Technology, Intel Smart Response and Intel Smart Connect technologies.
The HP ENVY Sleekbook-available with either a 14-inch diagonal display and the latest Intel Core processors, or a 15.6-inch diagonal display and the latest AMD Accelerated Processing Units (APU)-boasts up to eight or nine hours of battery life, respectively. With optional discrete graphics on Intel platforms and discrete-class graphics from AMD on AMD platforms, users can create and edit videos quickly and experience incredible gaming and multimedia.
In addition to Beats Audio, the ENVY Sleekbooks and Ultrabook systems contain dual speakers and a subwoofer for movies and music that look and sound their best. The HP Imagepad also includes a spun finish design.
The design users crave with features IT demands. No compromises.
The new HP EliteBook Folio 9470m is the first HP Ultrabook to provide a stylish, lightweight design without compromising its enterprise features. Measuring 14 inches diagonally and weighing 3.6 pounds, this 19-mm-thin Ultrabook offers a full array of key ports and connectivity options for business users, including optional built-in 4G wireless WAN, full-sized Ethernet, VGA, DisplayPort and USB 3.0 connections.
Ideal for mobile professionals who spend a majority of time away from a desk, the HP EliteBook Folio offers all-day battery life to get you through the business day and the option for a secondary battery that provides extended freedom from the power outlet. It also features a user-replaceable battery. The enterprise-class docking capability provides multidisplay support, integrated charging capability, and additional USB and legacy ports for enhanced productivity when used at the desk.
The HP EliteBook Folio delivers a cleaner, faster user experience with the HP Premier Image. This includes the full set of HP EliteBook business software and antivirus protection-without trial-ware or disruptive notifications.
It also offers enterprise-class manageability and multilevel security features, including HP Bios Protection, which keeps systems running with enhanced protection against virus attacks and other threats.
The HP EliteBook Folio features an optional solid state drive the Windows 7 Professional operating system that enable quick boot up. The Ultrabook’s third- generation Intel Core vPro processor also delivers intelligent performance with embedded security.Additional IT-friendly features include an integrated Smart Card reader, fingerprint reader, embedded TPM security chip and choice of management tools.
The HP EliteBook Folio is part of the HP Global Series Program, which means it’s available in consistent global configurations that allow for product standardization in up to 151 countries worldwide.
The sleek HP SpectreXT and HP ENVY Ultrabook also deliver configurations equipped with Windows 7 Professional for business productivity, providing an answer to the “consumerization of IT” trend. The HP SpectreXT additionally offers an embedded TPM security chip that protects data in email as well as information on the solid state drive for security-conscious users. Both Ultrabook systems, including the small business-focused HP ENVY Pro, also feature a-band wireless capabilities and optional three-year limited warranties.
To help ensure a safe and reliable computing experience for customers, all HP Ultrabook systems worldwide will ship with genuine Windows.
Pricing and availability
– The HP ENVY SpectreXT is expected to be available in the United States on June 8 with a starting price of $999.99.
– The HP ENVY Ultrabook systems with 14-inch and 15.6-inch display sizes are expected to be available in the United States on May 9 with starting prices of $749.99 and $799.99, respectively.
– The HP ENVY Sleekbook with 14-inch display size is expected to be available in the United States on May 9 with a starting price of $699.99. The HP 15.6-inch Sleekbook is expected to be available in the United States on June 20 with a starting price of $599.99.
– The HP EliteBook Folio 9470m is expected to be available in the United States in October.
Intel may be ready to announce their next in line Ivy Bridge Processors on the 23rd of April 2012 according to Digitimes. With companies like ASUS, Acer, Lenovo and Hewlett-Packard ready to launch their new ultrabooks in early May the timing only seems perfect for the new launches.
Intel has also reportedly setup a budget of $300 million to assist partners in promotion of the new chipsets on ultrabooks. Rumors also point to the fact that Apple is planning to refresh its iMac family of computers with Intel’s 22nm-based Core i5 and Core i7 Ivy Bridge processors in June or July.
Apple is also set to launch newer Macbook Pro models with a thinner design and possibly without the dvd slot drive boasting the new platform of chipsets.
HP had recently teased us with a video of their upcoming glass based notebook, we were hoping for dual screens and what not. Hp has gone all out to disappoint us, but hey its still an awesome machine.
Specs include a 14-inch, 1600 x 900 Radiance Display, Core i5-2467M CPU, 4GB of RAM, a nine-hour battery, backlit keyboard and the most bizarre thing a NFC chip, which is built into the palm rest to transfer information to your phone. (sounds less bizarre now). Hp has also gone all out and bundles software
Intel Wireless Display
HP’s CoolSense technology
Beats
HP Wireless Audio
Adobe Photoshop Full Version
Adobe Premiere Elements Full Version
Two-year subscription to Norton Internet Security
The Spectre is a one of a kind Ultrabooks with an all glass top and chassis. The Radiance display has extra bright backlit luminance and the lit logo adds flair.
HP Unveils Premium Ultrabook with Extraordinary Glass Design – the HP ENVY 14 Spectre
PALO ALTO, Calif., Jan. 9, 2012 – HP today revealed the HP ENVY 14 Spectre, a premium consumer Ultrabook PC that commands attention with its unparalleled use of glass and stunning performance.
“Sleek, midnight black glass on the outside and stark contrast silver glass on the inside make Spectre extraordinary, defying conventional notebook design,” said Eric Keshin, senior vice president, Strategy and Marketing, Personal Systems Group, HP. “We chose the name for our first ENVY Ultrabook to evoke mystery, and we packed it with the best in entertainment technology to satisfy those who expect the unexpected.”
Tough yet beautiful, the HP ENVY 14 Spectre uses lightweight, scratch- resistant glass on the lid, display, palmrest and HP ImagePad – an industry first. A full 14-inch screen inside a 13.3-inch body means customers can get more enjoyment from their entertainment. The HP Spectre’s high-definition (HD) HP Radiance Display offers higher resolution, richer color, better brightness and wider viewing angles than traditional notebook displays.
Equipped with a matching audio-grade speaker mesh and Beats AudioTM, an exclusive, high-performance technology developed by HP and Beats by Dr. Dre, the HP Spectre boasts an aluminum analog volume dial that acts as a visual design cue and works seamlessly with Beats Audio Manager to precisely adjust audio levels.
Built-in HP Wireless Audio turns any home into a concert hall, allowing users to stream uncompressed audio to up to four external devices or directly to any KleerNetTM-compatible device.
An HP Radiance Backlit keyboard provides outstanding illumination using individual LEDs dedicated to each keycap. The keyboard works with an advanced proximity sensor to intelligently sense a user’s presence, lighting up when a user approaches and dimming down after he or she leaves.
Uncompromising performance The HP Spectre is blazingly fast, stunningly sleek and boasts up to 9 hours of battery life. Powered by the latest Intel® CoreTM processors, the 20-mm-thin HP Spectre weighs less than 4 pounds and includes up to 256 gigabytes (GB) of storage. Intel Rapid Start Technology and support for two ultrafast mSATA solid state drives allow for quick boot and resume times. The HP Spectre also comes loaded with HP exclusives, such as HP CoolSense technology, which automatically adjusts performance and internal fan settings for a noticeably cooler PC. In addition, the HP ImagePad provides precise multifinger touch navigation and the HP TrueVision HD Webcam provides brighter, cleaner HD images.
Eliminating the need for external dongles, the HP Spectre features a full array of advanced input and output options, including Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.0, HDMI and Mini DisplayPort. Additionally, the Spectre offers a performance-tuned software image, full versions of Adobe Photoshop® and Premiere Elements, two years of preinstalled NortonTM Internet Security(6) and a concierge phone line for technical support that is dedicated exclusively to HP ENVY users.
Pricing and availability The HP ENVY 14 Spectre notebook PC is expected to be available in the United States on Feb. 8 with a starting price of $1,399.99.
The HP Spectre will also be available in early March in additional countries, including Canada, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Germany, Australia, Japan, Singapore, Chile and Mexico. Additional information is available at www.hp.com/go/spectre or by calling the HP “Reserve Now” line at +1 888 291 7996.
A whole new range of ultra books from HP reinforce their future in the domain. The new Folio notebooks/ultrabooks start at $900 and come standard with a 128GB mSATA SSD and a backlit keyboard. The battery life is estimated at 9 hours. The new Folio has a 13.3-inch (1366 x 768) display, TPM circuitry as an option and a Core i5-2467M processor, 4GB of RAM, a six-cell battery and HP’s CoolSense technology.It also has the now standard HDMI, Ethernet, USB 2.0 and 3.0, a memory card reader and a combined headphone / mic socket.
Its not as slender as the other competition, at 18mm at its thinner and wiggling in at 3.3 pounds this machine is fairly bulky.
HP Notebooks
[toggle title_open=”Press Release” title_closed=”Press Release” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]HP Unveils Its First Business Ultrabook, Offering Industry’s Best Battery Life HP Folio13 designed to bridge gap between professional and personal life PALO ALTO, Calif., Nov. 16, 2011 – HP today introduced its first business Ultrabook, which features a thin and light design, strong security options and a responsive solid state hard drive for the ultimate mobile experience.
The HP Folio13 also delivers up to 9.0 hours of battery life, the highest performance available among Ultrabook devices currently on the market.
With battery life to get you through the workday, users are no longer saddled with carrying power adapters to charge their notebook PC. Plus, a wide array of ports, including Ethernet, eliminates the need to carry dongles. Mobile professionals can now stay productive and get through their entire business day – from home to business and back home – with only the HP Folio13.
Measuring less than 18 millimeters thin and utilizing an ultraslim 13.3- inch diagonal high-definition (HD) BrightView display, the HP Folio13 weighs just 3.3 pounds. It combines the cool industrial design found on consumer products with the security and usability business users demand.
Powered by the latest Intel® Core processors, the HP Folio13 also includes Intel Rapid Start Technology, which gets your system up and running fast to help you save time.
The HP Folio13 includes a backlit keyboard for mobile users who work in low-light conditions. A full array of ports, including RJ-45 and USB 3.0, allows users greater flexibility to connect to the information they need. The HP Folio13 also includes a solid state drive (SSD) with 128 GB of storage for fast response times and increased reliability.
An optional TPM Embedded Security Chip protects data in email as well as information on the hard drive for security-conscious users.
The HP Folio13 features HP CoolSense technology, which uses advanced hardware and intelligent software for a noticeably cooler notebook. The notebook also includes an HP Imagepad for highly accurate, advanced multitouch gesture support.
Additional features include an HP TrueVision HD Webcam for brighter, cleaner HD images, and Dolby Advanced Audio.
The HP Folio13 also can be configured with a range of Microsoft Windows® 7 operating systems, including Windows 7 Professional. A three-year limited warranty is available through an optional HP Care Pack.
Users who need a desktop-like environment or additional audio, video, network and USB connectivity can connect the HP Folio13 to the optional HP USB 2.0 dock.
Pricing and availability The HP Folio13 is expected to be available on Dec. 7 with a starting price of $899.99.[/toggle]
The Acer Aspire S3 range of ultrabooks have been launched in India , at just 13 mm (0.51″) thickness, Aspire S3 weighs less than 1.4 kgs. the company is really boasting the new battery design which lasts upto 50 days on standby or 6 hours on real usage.
With the launch of the Acer Aspire S3 Ultrabook, we have charted a new line of course to the mobile computing world by effortlessly combining the essential features of both a notebook and a tablet,”
S.Rajendran, Chief Marketing Officer, Acer India.
The price of the these Notebooks starts at a price of Rs. 49,000/-
Tech Specs Include :
[toggle title_open=”Collapse PR” title_closed=”Expand PR” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]First we reduced its size, then we reduced its price… Acer Aspire S3 UltrabookTM debuts for $899 in North America Lightweight and fast like a hummingbird, the Acer Aspire S3 Series powers on instantly, connects to the Web in seconds and provides up to 50 days of stand-by time
Editor’s Summary: – The 13.3-inch HD widescreen LED-backlit display features a 16:9 aspect ratio and 1366 x 768 resolution, delivering sharp, rich visuals. – Acer Green Instant On lets you resume your computing session in less than 2 seconds. – Acer Instant Connect gets you on the Internet in just 2.5 seconds – four times faster than conventional connections. – A mere .51 inches thin and weighing a scant 2.98 pounds, the Aspire S3’s aluminum/ magnesium chassis delivers strength in a lightweight design. – Acer Hybrid Standby Technology provides up to 50 days of standby power and up to 6 hours of continuous usage. – An Intel® Core™ i5 Processor, 20GB solid state drive and roomy 320GB hard drive deliver as much performance and storage capacity as much larger, full-size notebooks. – Just $899, the Acer Aspire S3-951 proves you don’t have to be rich to be thin.
SAN JOSE, Calif., Oct. 10, 2011 – Acer America today announced the North American availability of its first Ultrabook, the Acer Aspire S3-951. This featherweight Ultrabook powers on instantly, connects to the Web in seconds and provides up to 50 days of stand-by time, or 6 hours of continuous usage. As slim and easy to carry as a magazine, it includes a powerful Intel Core i5 Processor, speedy solid state drive for quickly booting the operating system, roomy hard drive, and essential USB and HDMI ports.
“The combination of extreme mobility and affordability found in the Acer Aspire S3-951 Ultrabook will undoubtedly change the way people think about mobile computing,” said Sumit Agnihotry, vice president of product marketing, Acer America. “Consumers are going to love the value they find in the freedom and capabilities it offers.”
For Those who Hate to Wait Like its inspiration, The Acer Aspire S3 Series was designed to be as light and quick as a hummingbird. With Acer’s Ultrabook, there is no need to waste time shutting down and restarting. It’s always ready in a flash for online browsing, instant messaging, social networking and other activities.
Acer’s Green Instant On Technology delivers ultra-fast responsiveness, resuming from Sleep mode in as little as 2 seconds. The 20GB SSD drive stores the operating system and maintains the current PC’s state as it was when left unattended, so when the computer is awakened, web sites, emails or documents previously in use are instantly restored.
After 8 hours of inactivity, the Aspire S3 Series will enter Deep Sleep mode, from which it will resume in 6 seconds. The user can change this 8 hour default setting to 120 minutes, which is recommended for longer trips or periods of inactivity.
With these energy-conscious innovations, the battery life lasts up to 50 days – even longer than regular mobile phone batteries. All-day usability is delivered with an integrated long-life battery that delivers up to 6 hours of computing time.
Acer’s Instant Connect Technology reconnects the Ultrabook to the Internet from Sleep mode in just 2.5 seconds, four times faster than a conventional connection, enabling consumers to quickly access Instant Messaging, social networks and email immediately after the system comes “awake.”
You don’t have to be Rich to be Thin Sporting an ultra-thin design and an MSRP of just $899, the Acer Aspire S3-951 is light in your briefcase and light on your wallet. Measuring just half-an-inch at its thinnest and weighing a mere 2.98 pounds, it’s as easy to carry as a magazine or file folder. Its overall dimensions are 12.59 inches by 8.52-inches by .51 to.68-inches, making it one of the thinnest notebooks available on the market.
The liberal use of magnesium aluminum/alloy contributes to the Aspire S3’s rigid frame while also keeping the system as light as possible. The aerodynamic design includes a metallic silver gray hairline finish, and a fingerprint-free finish on the lid that feels as smooth as silk. The 13.3-inch ultra-thin HD LED display uses an open cell design, integrating the display’s covers with the glass panel. This allows the lid and bezel to form a strong aluminum frame around the screen, and reduces the bezel thickness by about 10 percent, creating a super-slim silhouette that is still strong enough to protect the display.
A seamless and uncluttered chassis, only a card reader and headphone connector are located on the left and right side; all the other connectors are located in the back, keeping the side profiles clean and sleek.
For user convenience, the power and battery status indicators are located on the outside corner, allowing them to be viewed even when the lid is closed. In addition, the power button is located above the keyboard underneath the LCD, so it’s easy to reach but won’t be accidentally pressed when the notebook is picked up and moved. A large multi-gesture touchpad and full size chiclet keyboard keeps the design simple and neat.
The Acer Aspire Ultrabook also includes numerous design elements that keep the system running cool and efficiently. All the heat generating components have been placed away from the palm rest and touchpad area, and warm air is funneled away from the user through the back of the Ultrabook. Venting throughout the keyboard also helps the system stay cool, and its vent-free bottom allows it to be used comfortably on a lap or pillow, without fear of obstructing air flow and overheating. In addition, airflow is optimized to enhance efficiency and lower power consumption to help increase system battery life.
Get the Job Done without being Weighed Down Capturing the spirit of the hummingbird, the Aspire S3’s diminutive form belies its agility and prowess. It is among the thinnest and lightest, but is incredibly fast and powerful.
Featuring a 2nd generation Intel® Core™ i5 Processor, Intel® HD Graphics 3000, 20GB solid state drive, 320GB hard drive, and 4GB of memory, the Aspire S3-951 Ultraportable is small, lightweight and easy to carry while still delivering the power needed for multimedia programs, CPU intensive programs and graphic intensive games. It is currently the only Ultrabook on the market to include both a solid state and hard disk drive.
Rock Out to Big Audio in a Small Package Ideal for enjoying music, games or movies on-the-go or at home, the S3-951 includes professionally-tuned Dolby® Home Theater® v4, for vibrant, cinema-style surround sound and enhanced dialogue quality. Combined with its 13.3-inch HD Widescreen CineCrystal™ LED-backlit display featuring a 16:9 aspect ratio and a maximum resolution of 1366 x 788, it delivers sharp, rich high-definition visuals. It can be connected to an external monitor, projector or TV through a single cable via its HDMI port, so 1080p content can be enjoyed on a larger scale.
Share Photos, Update Social Networks and Video Chat — Anytime, Anywhere Acer Clear.fi makes it easy to stay in touch with friends and family, managing, storing, sharing and enjoying music, photos and videos between any Clear.fi enabled devices throughout a home or small office. In addition, they can also use it to connect to social networking sites, as clear.fi connects to feeds from Facebook, videos on YouTube and images on flickr. In addition, a 2-in-1 card reader that supports SD™ Card and MultiMediaCard™ formats make it easy to quickly and easily share data or download photos from their digital cameras.
For those who like to chat, video sessions are easy to set up and sound clear as a bell. The S3 Series includes Acer Video Conference Manager instant messaging software and a Crystal Eye 1.3 webcam that provides high-pixel density for amazing video image quality at 24 frames per second. Dual cameras make it easy to take high-definition still photos from either side of the Ultrabook.
For wireless connectivity at home or on the go, Acer InviLink™ Nplify™ 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi CERTIFIED™ technology delivers reliable wireless connections wherever there’s a hotspot(9). The Aspire S3 Series lets you cut down the clutter with Bluetooth® 4.0+ HSR technologies, the latest standard for quick short-range wireless file transfers.
Availability, Pricing The Acer Aspire S3-951 Ultrabook will be available this week at leading online and retail outlets in the U.S. and Canada. It has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $899 (U.S. & CAN).
Future models to be announced will round out Acer’s Ultrabook line up, and will include Intel Core i7 or Core i3 Processors and larger capacity solid state drives.[/toggle]
