From desktop to laptop to the ultimate in convenience—Microsoft just recently introduced the world’s first ultracompact computer that not only runs windows XP, but also fits easily in one hand and operates completely by touch screen.
Two models from two manufacturers are set to hit stores this spring, and according to Microsoft, they’ll both be about an inch thick and weigh less than 2½ pounds. Basically that means the whole computer is about the size of a large paperback book.
To me this marks the next big shift in computer usage. Right now, carting your laptop around seems so formal in comparison. If you’re on a plane, in the airport, or even just around the house on weekends, flipping open the screen and keyboarding in what you need to do will start to seem tedious and ancient as soon as people get a chance to experience the convenience and almost casual ease of this device. I haven’t tried one yet, but if it’s all it’s cracked up to be, I can see it shelving your laptop next to your cassette tapes.
Think of it: it’s the size of a book, you operate it with your finger or a stylus, and you have all the power and performance of Windows, plus it operates downloaded video, music—any kind of entertainment you want—at an expected retail price of between $600 and $1,000. All that, and for you who must have a keyboard, you can hook one up to it.
Because of its mobility and entertainment-friendly benefits, this device could easily and quickly advance the demand for wireless carriers to provide more video-on-demand. So I’ll be able to conveniently download the Sopranos and watch it on a 7-inch screen while I’m on the road or sitting in my favorite chair outside on the weekend.
Be productive, play games, be entertained, communicate, stay connected, and do it while you move about as freely as you want to. The future is arriving at full speed, and it’s fitting right into the palm of your hand.
That’s it, from the edge of the world.
Bob
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