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MSI Introduces Wind U180 Netbook With Cedar Trail

February 3rd, 2012
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MSI revealed a new Wind U180 ultra light netbook with Intel’s latest Cedar Trail Atom processing platform. This netbook features twice the processing and display performance as the previous generation netbook. It also touts a battery life of eight hours. The Wind U180 measures less than one inch thick and weighs about 2.2 pounds. In addition to the new generation dual-core Intel Atom N2800 processor, the Wind U180 also supports DDR3 system memory. You’ll also find a power-saving 10.1-inch LED backlit display with a response time of just 8 milliseconds in this netbook.

MSI unveiled its all-new powerful Wind U180 for 2012. This ultra thin, ultra light netbook features Intel’s new generation, power-sipping, high performance Cedar Trail Atom processing platform packed in a snazzy chassis. It boasts twice the processing and display performance of the previous generation netbook as well as eight hours of battery power, so it doesn’t run out of energy before you do. In addition, it comes with MSI’s own TDE overclocking technology to maximize processor performance. The Wind U180 strikes the ideal balance between performance and style as well as between technology and art.

Taipei—The Wind U180, meticulously crafted by MSI for 2012, marks a new zenith in computer technology, offering both performance and an esthetically pleasing looks. It comes in minimalist black, angel white or lavender, is less than one-inch thin, tips the scales at just 1kg, and is sheathed in MSI’s own attractive IMR color film print to prevent scratches and smudges. Let this highly mobile piece of computer technology add color to your life.

Eric Kuo, associate vice president for global sales, MSI Notebook, points out that the MSI Wind U180, a new generation netbook characterized by painstaking attention to craftsmanship and innovation, not only packs significantly more power, it is the ideal solution to meet today’s mobile multimedia needs. Its display is some three times more powerful than that of the previous generation, enabling the high resolution LED screen to show much more detail and color. What’s more, the HDMI slot allows you to connect the U180 netbook to a large HDTV to maximize multimedia entertainment.

Double the power, double the fun

Intel’s Atom processor: The stylish MSI Wind U180 netbook comes optional with the new generation dual-core Intel Atom N2800 processor with advanced 32nm-based process which works in conjunction with the Intel NM10 high-speed chip set. It not only effectively enhances processor and overall system performance by more than 20% over previous generation netbooks, it also supports DDR3 system memory, while using much less power than the earlier platform. This new generation netbook brings high performance under the hood of a lean, mean, beautifully constructed machine.

All-new media engine: The MSI Wind U180 utilizes the latest generation display graphics technology, enabling it to play high resolution 1080p movies, and it supports digital display and conferencing capabilities, such as HDMI. The internal Intel Graphics Media Accelerator works in conjunction with the integrated memory control to boost performance and system response. The display graphics performance is double that of the previous generation platform. You can watch movies or hook it up to an HDTV without compromising picture quality.

MSI TDE overclocking technology: The MSI Wind U180 comes with MSI’s own epoch making TDE overclocking technology to speed up the processor clock, instantly throttling up performance. It optimizes the hardware which works in coordination with up to 2GB of DDR3 system memory to provide you a light and fast computing experience.

Stylish colors

Chic, slim, light exterior: The Wind U180’s ultra slim, ultra light netbook sports a unique display axle and offers you a choice of minimalist black, angel white or lavender chassis protected from scratching and wear by the attractive IMR color film print. The palm-placement areas are sheathed in an attractive gleaming cover which adds to the overall elegance of the MSI Wind U180.

Unique Chiclet keyboard: The MSI Wind U180 has a stylish Chiclet keyboard with independent key design for quieter, more solid action. With each strike of the keyboard, you will understand that MSI truly does insist on the best in each and every detail.

Attention to detail

Swirl design touchpad: The Wind U180 employs MSI’s own swirl design touchpad which gives the keyboard area a stylishly minimalist look and enhances touch detection for smoother cursor movement.

Super thin 10-inch LED screen: The MSI Wind U180 sports a power-saving 10.1″ LED backlit display with a response time of just 8 milliseconds—more than twice as fast as traditional notebooks, to give you a smooth, crisp picture with greater detail and brighter colors when watching movies and animation. This netbook offers the visual quality of a cinema.

Ultimate mobility, extended battery power

MSI’s ECO power saving technology: MSI’s exclusive ECO engine power saving technology allows you to select from among five power management levels—Video Game, Film, Presentation, Word Processing, and Turbo Battery, with the touch of a finger, so you can effectively extend battery power time 33% over the previous generation. Tests show that the 6-cell battery can power the MSI Wind U180 for 8 hours to give you all the power you need for the entire day.

*Actual battery time will vary with differences in computer use and settings.

Bluetooth and wireless network support: In addition to providing 8 hours of battery power, the MSI Wind U180 also supports a complete array of wireless connectivity with 802.11 b/g/n wireless and Bluetooth 3.0+HS, making connecting with the world simple. Enjoy advanced future mobile computing technology today.

Source:http://hothardware.com/News/MSI-Introduces-Wind-U180-Netbook-With-Cedar-Trail/

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Acer Aspire One D270 Netbook Shipping Soon

January 2nd, 2012
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Acer’s Aspire One D270 netbook will be one of the first to hit the ground running around Intel’s Cedar Trail platform, and if the number of impatient vendors who have started listing the netbook ahead of its official release are any indication, we can surmise the D270 will land very soon.

Notebook Italia spotted a whole bunch of European vendors tossing up D270 product pages, most of which have it priced at around 250 euros (about $325 USD). But it’s not just showing up in Europe. Adorama, a store in New York City best known for its photography equipment, is also listing the D270, priced at $280 before shipping (no mention of when it will ship).

The Aspire One D270 is a 10.1-inch netbook flaunting an Intel Atom N2600 processor (1.6GHz, dual-core), 1GB of DDR3 memory, 320GB hard drive, 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi, 6-cell battery, and Windows 7 Starter. The star of the show, of course, is Cedar Trail.

One of the big advantages of the Atom N2600 chip over previous generation Atom processors is reduced power consumption, which is partially the result of moving to a 32nm manufacturing process (down from 45nm). Graphics also get a boost, bumping up from an Intel GMA 3100 clocked at 200MHz to a PowerVR SGX 545 clocked at 400MHz, resulting in a better than 2x GPU performance improvement, according to Intel. Finally, Cedar Trail adds support for DDR3-800/1066 memory, whereas Pinetrail topped out at DDR3-667. It’s a minor improvement, but combined with everything else, it should help keep netbooks relevant for the foreseeable future, or so Intel hopes.

Source:http://hothardware.com/News/Acer-Aspire-One-D270-Netbook-Shipping-Soon/

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Intel Realigning Atom Processor Strategy Away from Netbooks

December 27th, 2011
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Netbook sales aren’t what they used to be. A combination of factors ended the netbook craze that existed not all that long ago, including the rising popularity of tablet PCs, lower cost notebooks, and the recent introduction of highly portable Ultrabooks. Underscoring this point is the fact that Intel’s Atom processor and chipset revenue fell by nearly a third (32 percent) in the Q3 2011 compared to the same quarter in 2010, according to IHS iSuppli. So what does the future hold for Atom?

Looking ahead, Intel is shifting its Atom strategy towards network-attached storage (NAS) devices, entry-level servers, and embedded applications. This shift will begin with the introduction of Intel’s next Atom CPU — Centerton — built on a 32nm manufacturing process with a slim architecture and low power consumption, according to DigiTimes.

Skipping ahead to 2013, Intel will following up Centerton with 22nm Silvermont-based Atom processors, and then 14nm Airmont-based Atom chips in 2014. By then, Intel hopes to have a better foothold in the tablet PC market, the same one that’s been partially responsible for consumers’ waning interest in netbooks.

Source:http://hothardware.com/News/Intel-Realigning-Atom-Processor-Strategy-Away-from-Netbooks/

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Tablets, ultraportables and netbooks: Fight for mobility

December 23rd, 2011
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To be honest, the idea of writing a primer on the top models of the market, was created earlier this year. When we finally found time for it, we had to acknowledge that much has changed since then. Some models were abandoned, others were presented and more than a new product category emerged. There was no consideration in the room, on our website ” ultranetbooktabletcheck.com “re-baptized, but ultimately this domain name seemed too long.

If you feel the influx of new devices a bit overwhelmed, so we hope that this article, the situation may be even better. In the following series, we take three much-discussed categories of mobile computing market to target: Tablet, netbooks and ultraportables.

First we consider the properties of each of these categories and tear just their story to. This is followed by a description of the target market and ultimately our recommendations . That you have met the end of the article your purchase decision, we can not promise. Nevertheless, the choice is simplified somewhat hopefully. And who knows, maybe a new device has been re-introduced to the market if they have read over and we have to begin again.

In English usage, a tablet is a flat board for inscriptions. This is definitely in a modern tablet computer. Tablets are available in various sizes. Almost all follow the “slate” design, which usually consists of a 50-10 inch large capacitive touch screen with little to no physical keyboard and is a lightweight housing. In addition, tablets are mainly due to entry via touchscreen dependent. Nevertheless, some manufacturers opted for additional built-in or detachable keyboards. Raises the total tablet design simplicity and portability out, with several companies vying to offer the thinnest and lightest devices.

Current Tablets are operated by a wide range of processors. The most popular are NVIDIA’s Tegra series, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon and ARM Cortex-A series . Tablets also provide some high-quality IPS (In-Plane Switching) screen and even HD resolutions. Camera, Bluetooth, WiFi, gyroscopes, mini- HDMI and at least 8-16GB flash memory can be found today in most Tablets. Many manufacturers also offer models with 3G functionality, whereby users of Wi -independent can the Internet. An appropriate service plan or charge card provided, of course.

History:

The original architecture tablet might run up to the days of Apple’s Newton platform back, which was introduced in 1993 and abandoned 1998th Although they did not receive much attention, it paved the way for the next stage in the development of tablet Microsoft and their new tablet version of Windows XP. Unfortunately, this Windows Tablet, partly because of their high price and their Klobigket, not very successfully.

While some may argue that Portable Media Players (PMPs) from early 2000 were the predecessors of modern tablets, we tend to ascribe this to the late Steve Jobs. Jobs, who was ironically behind with releasing the original Apple Newton, is widely attributed to the launch of the Tablet boom after the iPad was introduced in January 2010. The iPad has benefited from advances in the hardware sector, which quickly enabled devices in slim cases. Although originally derided for its resemblance to the iPhone, the iPad drove record profits but one.

After the success of the iPad, it was clear the market, several manufacturers appeared attractive enough and none other than Google chose to grab a decent slice of the pie. The first Google-based tablets in the mobile operating system Android has been unveiled at the end of 2010 Archos, Samsung and ViewSonic. These devices were definitely not as popular as the iPad, but due to constantly updated, tablet-oriented software, the attractiveness of Android Tablets increased sharply in recent years.

There were also some other noteworthy models on the tablet market, which differed in the software used. As representatives, mention here Research in Motion (RIM) and HP . But so far none of them really successful on a broad base and the tablet market will therefore continue to be dominated by Apple and Android.

With the increasing success of the tablets are increasing the voices of the skeptics that pay so that they lose the tablet PC back in favor in the long term. Since estimates of up to 100 million tablets shipped in 2012 indicate, however, it is likely that the compact systems we still have some time to get.

Who Uses Tablets:

One of the biggest advantages of tablets, one that they can be practically useful for anyone at least somewhat, since they have a virtually infinite number of possible applications offer. Virtually every conceivable application, it is now the appropriate app (application – application / program for a particular task) and based on user-friendly touch screen control and Gryroskop it is also easy for laymen to use them. Children can play on tablets, surf the Internet and adult videos on the go. They allow workers to master their work in different ways on the go and students will benefit by reading electronic text books or learning with the help of interactive apps.

One recent study of Google’s AdMob to be a result, most tablets used for games, followed by information search and e-mail. Also reported 43% of the other party that they spend more time on the tablet than with a desktop or a TV. 68% reported that they use their tablet more than 1 hour a day.

Although the activities listed could also be done with a normal PC, tablets are comparatively lighter and thinner than most laptops. Its most extended battery life and the possibility of 3G functionality bring benefits in terms of portability compared to conventional laptops. Moreover, the price appears around 500 € (equipment and model dependent) attractive to career changers.
Anyway, the prices as most manufacturers Tablet PCs instead of second units as a primary computer on. This increases the chances of co-existence with personal computers. Upcoming developments are essentially only room for improvement in sensitivity and an intuitive user interface, which has to a large extent by the software, or even with the slimness of the device, the general performance and battery life.

Part II – The largest head-to-head race

As mentioned earlier, Apple’s iPad was the first truly successful official tablet and enjoyed a bit less than a year, practically a monopoly. With the introduction of Google’s tablet-oriented Honeycomb and Ice Cream Sandwich (ICS) operating systems (aka 3.x, 4.x), more and more users switch to Android. Although Apple and the iPad will continue to find many supporters, remains limited due to its iPad but only available form and size (as of Q4 2011) and can miss configurability. Android Tablets on the other hand, there are different forms so that customers will be spoiled for choice, develop the more popular manufacturers such as Sony, ASUS, Samsung, Lenovo, Amazon, Barnes & Noble and even its own Android tablet.

Ultimately determines the success of a tablet is not so much the hardware specification and design, but rather the simplicity of the software operation and application availability . Regarding usability, Apple has probably the nose slightly forward as the Apple OS is more user friendly in general and for many users already familiar from the iPhone or iPod Touch is. Google’s latest Honeycomb and ICS operating systems emphasize simple user interface, but not everyone finds pleasure in the vendor-specific user interfaces, some manufacturers (eg Sense HTC, Motorola and Samsung TouchWiz Motoblur).

Too bad for Google, Android in terms of available apps even better result. This still leads Apple’s App Store in terms of both number and overall quality of applications. 2011, there was something over 350,000 apps on Android Market (which, according to the Android market are classified as low-quality 33%). Contrast, Apple’s App Store surpassed the 500k mark in May this year. On the other hand, there are about 10,000 more Android for free, meaning free applications, as for IOS. But one should bear in mind that many analysts tend to classify them as inferior to iOS apps.

The difference between the two competitors becomes clearer when one considers the number of tablets sold, Apple sold iPads 9:25 million in Q3 of 2011 , however, were only 1.2 million Android tablets sold throughout the year 2011. Now holds the lion’s share of Apple is still the market, but could this be coming with Microsoft’s Tablet-optimized Windows platform change 8.

The IOS vs. Android Debate course is too large to be examined comprehensively in this article. But it seems that, judging by the current sales figures, Apple iPad, and because of processing, app quality , user friendliness and, not least as a significant factor style to win. Nevertheless, Android Tablets have also justified their merits and their own highly motivated supporters. Because of its price tends to be lower and a greater choice, they also provide an attractive option for customers dar.

Part III – Recommendations

The steady increase in the tablet market can make a buying decision difficult. Once we have different criteria, such as price, hardware, software and design are considered, we appear recommendable in any case the following devices :

1) Apple iPad 2

The classic. With a height of only .34 inch (8.8mm) is the iPad 2 35% thinner than the original iPad. It offers a 9.7 ” IPS screen, a 1GHz Cortex A5 CPU , 512MB main memory, either 16, 32 and 64GB and WiFi or 3G . Here you will find our detailed review. Due to the lightweight design and a wealth of applications leads to the iPad Tablet 2 definitely our list. Therefore, we can in good conscience recommend the current iPad all those who are looking for a tablet to the Apple iPad 3 is presenting.

Price : Apple calls a price band width of 479-799 €, depending on storage capacity and 3G option.

2) ASUS Eee Pad Transformer

Is possibly the transformer currently the most popular Android tablet. It introduces a new concept of a detachable keyboard that functions both as a docking station as well as an additional battery. In addition, the Transformer a 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 CPU , 1GB RAM, a 10.1 ” IPS screen, a microSD reader. 16GB/32GB models are offered, but no 3G option . Our complete test can be found here . Compared to other Android tablets, we find the Transformer definitely favor, since it is also cheaper than many of its competitors.

Price : 399-599 for the tablet (depending on memory capacity, and 3G Dock Bundle option), separately for the keyboard unit is around 150 € to quote. It is expected that the price with the market introduction of the Prime Transformer (is imminent) will fall dramatically.

3) ASUS Eee Pad Transformer Prime

Although ASUS has introduced its next-generation tablet until they received due to the extremely tempting specification for a place on our list, see also representative for the TF101. The 8.3 mm thick tablet is available in 32GB and 64GB version and can on Android 4.0 ICS will be upgraded. Moreover, it is the first NVIDIA Tegra 3 Tablet are on the market. In addition, its Mobile Dock is obviously the battery life by an astonishing 18 hours may be extended. ASUS currently accepting pre-orders from UK customers already. In the U.S. it is from 19th December will be available.

Price : $ 499 for the 32GB model, $ 599 for the 64GB model. The Mobile Dock, however, costs an additional $ 149 . Release date for Germany is still unknown.

4) Samsung Galaxy Tab

The next line is the candidate of the Android Samsung Galaxy Tab, which at 10.1 ” , 8.9 ” , 7.7 ” and 7 ” version is available. With the various screen sizes and WiFi/3G and even 4G options in select models (7.7, 8.9 and 10.1) revealed the Galaxy Tab from the entire spectrum. Samsung Tablets offer a proprietary user interface called TouchWiz which certain widgets and adds easy-access menus. In addition, the comparable 10.1 “tab similar to thin as the iPad 2 and all models use Samsung’s own AMOLED screens.

The decision between Transformer and Galaxy Tabs is difficult. Those who have no interest in a docking station, or looking for a very compact model, for a tab from Samsung might be the right choice.

Price : vary greatly from model to model and trim level of the individual. The 10.1 “Galaxy Tab comes with 16GB and 3G at around 530 €. In the top version with 64 GB of memory at around 699 €.

5) Amazon Kindle Fire

The Kindle Fire offers only a two-core OMAP 4 1GHz CPU , no cameras, 512MB main memory and just 8GB SSD storage . The Fire benefited massively from this integration of Amazon’s services , and 200 of its low cost under $ The tablet uses a 7 ” IPS screen and weighs only 14.6 oz (413 grams), but offers not so much to those of other Android Tablets.

Source:http://www.notebookcheck.com/Tablets-Ultraportables-und-Netbooks-Kampf-um-Mobilitaet.67773.0.html

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Ultrabooks: Tablets with Attitude, or Netbooks on Steroids?

October 27th, 2011
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At the time, it seemed like everyone I knew just had to have one. Netbooks were the future of mobile computing — at least until you tried to use one on a daily basis.
Tiny Size, Big Drawbacks

You see, while the netbook solved the problem of providing highly portable hardware that could run a full-blown OS (such as Windows XP), it did so at the expense of a roomy display, a functional keyboard, and a usable trackpad. On more than one occasion, I got so frustrated attempting to type a long email on my netbook’s ridiculously tiny keyboard that I wanted to chuck it out the window.

While I managed to curb my urge to destroy, I’m sure many netbooks actually suffered a painful death at the hands of disgruntled owners.

Netbooks — most of which used Intel’s Atom processor — also lacked the power to run a newer operating system like Windows 7. Consumers wised up and concluded that netbooks were more like toys than productivity tools.

Source:http://www.allbusiness.com/ultrabook-laptop-computers/16706896-1.html

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Samsung launches solar powered Netbook

September 21st, 2011
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Samsung have launched the NC215S, a 10-inch solar powered Netbook PC.

The 10.1-inch device can charge in 2 hours thanks to the built in solar panel on the front of the unit. The netbook itself can provide up to a claimed 14.5 hours battery life with combined plug point and solar charging.

The NC215S also features a 10.1-inch anti-reflective screen with SuperBright technology that provides users with 300nit brightness levels, which allows users to work in direct sunlight.

Other features include:

FastStart technology which allows boot from hibernation in seconds
Dual core Intel Atom processor
Sleep-and-Charge which allows USB devices to charge off the Netbook while it’s in sleep mode

The Samsung NC215S Netbook will be available locally from September 2011 at a recommended retail price of R3 499.00.

Specifications:

Display: 10.1” (1024×600) Super-Bright LED, Anti-reflective
CPU: Intel® ATOM™ Processor N455 (1.66GHz)
Memory: 1GB DDR3
Hard Drive: 320GB (5400rpm)
Graphics: Intel GMA 3150
Dimensions: 259 x 179.5 x 23.6~35.8 mm
Weight: 1.32kg
Expansion ports: VGA, Headphone-out, Mic-in, Internal Mic,3 x USB 2.0, 4-in-1 (SD, SDHC, SDXC, MMC), RJ45(LAN), DC-In(Power Port)

Samsung NC215S

Samsung launches the World’s first Solar Powered 10” Netbook

Samsung Netbook NC215S is powered by the sun for the ultimate eco-computing experience

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, a global leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies, today launched the Samsung NC215S, the world’s first solar powered 10” Netbook PC. This lightweight device delivers power, portability and performance while also being both environmentally and economically friendly.

Just two hours of sunlight can provide up to an hour of power while still being able to see exactly what you’re doing – thanks to Samsung’s SuperBright anti-reflective display. Combined with an overall battery life of up to 14.5 hours and a powerful Intel® Atom™ processor, the Samsung NC215S offers you almost limitless mobility.

“Samsung is committed to ecologically-sound product innovation; we are very proud to be bringing the world’s first solar powered 10” Netbook to the market,” said Philip Henning, Notebook PC Product Owner at Samsung Electronics South Africa. “The NC215S demonstrates Samsung’s continued innovation, delivering superior performance, mobility and satisfaction to our customers.”

Let the sun shine on your PC

Maximising productivity while minimising its carbon footprint, the NC215S features an integrated solar panel on the front of the Netbook, allowing it to automatically charge when in sunlight. The result is environmental and financial efficiency – two hours of solar charging provides up to one hour’s usage with zero cost or carbon emissions. Designed for care-free portability, the NC215S PowerPlus battery lasts for up to 14.5 hours on a single full charge, meaning that you can get more done on the move.

Samsung’s PowerPlus battery uses intelligent charging technology, making the battery’s lifespan three times longer than that of conventional batteries – being capable of performing 1,000 charging cycles over a three year period. The intelligent charging technology also allows for quicker charging, creating further economical savings and cutting carbon emissions.

Awarded TCO certification based on its environmentally friendly and ergonomic design, the NC215S provides the optimum ease of use and performance. While still fulfilling strict environmental requirements, the Netbook is designed with recycling in mind and boasts a remarkably low level of energy consumption. Other requirements ensure very good picture quality, low noise levels and low electrical and magnetic fields. The certification system also requires manufacturers to demonstrate active commitment in improving work conditions in the manufacturing process.

Fast on the go

Samsung’s Fast Start technology enables an ‘Instant on’ – so you can get started within a few seconds of opening the display or pressing the power button. The innovative hybrid sleep mode also combines the fast start-up of sleep with the stability of hibernation, so you don’t have to wait 30-60 seconds for the Netbook to boot-up.

And despite the device’s solar powered battery, diminutive form factor and environmentally friendly features, there is no sacrifice in performance. The NC215S features a powerful dual core Intel Atom processor combined with an Intel GMA 3510 graphics processor, delivering a swift, responsive experience and unrivalled mobile computing performance. The Intel Atom processor is highly energy-efficient, making better use of the battery life and extending its usage time when on the move. The processor also enables new levels of support for the ideal entertainment experience, demanding applications as well as the Adobe Flash video technology that’s frequently used on multimedia websites such as YouTube.

The Netbook is further equipped with a unique Sleep-and-Charge USB port allowing for portable devices, such as smartphones or MP3 players, to be charged even when the PC is sleeping, turned off or if the battery has run out – all through the use of solar power.

Easy to Use

Samsung’s SuperBright anti-reflective display means that the NC215S Netbook screen is bright and clear whatever the conditions – even in sunlight. The device’s 300nit brightness, which is up to 50% brighter than competing Netbooks, ensures that images are vivid and text is clear, sharp and easily readable, while the anti-reflective technology means you can work longer, without the risk of eye strain.

Even though it is economically and ecologically friendly, the NC215S still manages to be elegant and lightweight without compromising on screen size. The slim display bezel around the 10.1” display means that the viewing experience is maximised, while still retaining a highly portable form factor. The comfortable island keyboard features isolated keys, which are spaced ergonomically to provide optimum comfort while typing. Testing of the keyboard has also proved that the optimised spacing of the keys ensures fewer errors, while being more hygienic as dirt cannot be trapped between keys.

Built to serve the most demanding mobile user, the NC215S weighs just 1.32kg, making it comfortably portable. For frequent travelers and those constantly computing on the move, the Netbook’s robust Samsung Duracase, with scratch-resistant protection, adds an extra level of durability, keeping the outer-shell pristine and protecting against everyday wear and tear.

Pricing and Availability

The Samsung NC215S Netbook will be available locally from September 2011 at a recommended retail price of R3 499.

Source:http://mybroadband.co.za/news/gadgets/34294-samsung-launches-solar-powered-netbook.html

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MeeGo: Has the perfect netbook OS arrived?

August 30th, 2011
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MeeGo, the operating system that Intel and Nokia collaborated to build, has mostly been associated with smartphones. But, in the past few weeks, the Indian market has seen it make an appearance on two netbook models – the Asus eeePC X101 and the Samsung N100.

But does Meego succeed where Android failed? After all, the Google OS tried taking the netbook path with Acer and Toshiba last year – and with very forgettable results. Well, we reviewed the new operating system on both the machines to see if it had what it takes to be a viable alternative to Windows…

Light on specs
The specs of the two MeeGo netbooks are similar and might seem a bit on the light side: Intel Atom N455 1.66GHz for the Asus X101 and Intel Atom N435 1.33GHz for the Samsung N100, 1GB RAM, 250GB HDD, 10.1-inch display. Both devices come complete with USB and Ethernet ports, card reader and Wi-Fi. In keeping with the hardware, the devices also boast lighter prices and frames. They retail in the vicinity of Rs 12,500 and tip the scales at slightly more than a kilogramme.

But what really differentiates these netbooks from other similar devices is their MeeGo OS (the raison d’etre of this article). I knew I was on to something radically different the moment I hit the power button – boot-up time was around 15 seconds and shutdown was even quicker.

On starting, I saw a landing screen called My Zone with a row of tabs at the top; each letting you access different functions. And, if you have an internet connection running, it will also show you your social network (Twitter and Facebook) updates as well as new e-mail within seconds of loading. You can also check up on your calendar and to-do list from here. Shades of Android’s widget-on-homescreen formula? Yes, and I love it.

The other tabs let you access functions such as the browser, e-mail, chats and IM, applications on the computer, your status on different social networks, and music and video. On MeeGo, there are no dropdown menus in the main interface — you just select the tab and click on the icon of the app you wish to use.

You can also add and remove some of the tabs, although this involves going to the Devices and Settings menu and scouting around a bit. Multitasking is as simple as hitting the good old Alt+Tab keys or just clicking on top of the display – this opens the row of tabs available, without shutting your current application. All you need to do is select the tab you want, as your app keeps running in the background.

It is a far cry from what we have been used to be on Windows. And, in terms of usability, it seems like a fresh viable alternative.

It does standard stuff too
Still, under its different interface, MeeGo lets you do pretty much what you can on any other computer. The default browser is Chromium (a variant of Chrome) and comes with all the features that you would expect from a standard web browser – from bookmarking to saving web pages to tabbed browsing.

There are media players, file managers, and even some basic games to play around with. The USB ports work just dandy with printers, scanners, pen drives – and if you are ready to tweak things a bit, with USB wireless modems, too. Both, Samsung and Asus have bundled office suites with the netbooks –the N100 comes with LibreOffice while the X101 comes with OpenOffice.org -so you can create, open, and edit documents, spreadsheets and presentations, and even do some graphics work.

All this, at a decent price and with a battery life that is seriously good; we got close to six to seven hours on both the netbooks. Yes, there are not as many software for MeeGo when compared to Windows and we are not sure whether there will ever be heavy-duty games for this OS. But hey, in my few days with it, MeeGo let me do everything that I could do on a similar Windows-based system.

Also, considering the devices are ‘net’ books, it’s wonderful to see your social networks and mails on your landing screen within seconds of going online. I did have some headaches with the small trackpads on both netbooks, but a USB mouse took care of that. All of which makes MeeGo one of the best alternative OS I have seen on this form factor. In fact, I might go far enough to say that the perfect netbook OS might just have landed.

Source:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tech/news/hardware/MeeGo-Has-the-perfect-netbook-OS-arrived/articleshow/9785529.cms

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