DualCor Technologies cPC

DualCor Technologies in January will unveil the cPC, a full-fledged handheld Windows XP Tablet computer that also runs Windows Mobile 5.0 operating system for its smart phone functionality. The cPC is 6.5 inches long, 3.3 inches wide, 1.2 inches thick and has a 5-inch diagonal screen. It will be aimed at sales representatives and executives who travel extensively, said CEO Steven Hanley according to a CNet article. The cPc jams two devices into one package, Hanley said. Specifically it runs the Windows XP (Tablet edition) operating system, a 1.5GHz C7-M processor from Via Technologies and 1GB of DDR 2 memory, along with a 40GB hard drive.

The most impressive aspect of this product is that it lets you run your Windows XP applications and acts as a smart phone while simulataneously solving the bulky, cumbersome and power-hungry issues that these products typically have. In fact, this isn't the first time somebody has crammed Windows XP into a portable size. OQO created a full-fledged Windows XP computer awhile ago, called OQO model 01, that is about the same size and shape as a Pocket PC and runs on 1GHz Transmeta processors, which consume less power than regular PC processors.

The difference here is that DualCor Technologies not only runs Windows XP, but it's also a smart phone. More importantly, DualCor also embedded the Windows Mobile 5.0 operating system which allows you to get 8-12hrs of standby time versus 3 hours when running in Windows XP mode, making this an attractive option for power users, travelling salespeople, and all the gadget freaks. Further, since it runs Windows XP, in theory you should be able to install Skype or any third-party VoIP software client and bypass the more expensive cellular network. Their website doesn't list the wireless specs - (i.e. Bluetooth, WiFi, 3G, GPRS, GSM, etc.) - but regardless in theory you can make VoIP calls over a hotspot network or even over the carrier's data network - especially if the carrier offers an unlimited data plan.

The size convenience, ability to run Windows XP and Windows Mobile 5.0 applications, and its good better life will cost you a whopping \$1500 though. Still, it won't be long now before you can run your favorite Windows apps on your cellphone/smartphone. Yeah, I think I'm going to hold off on getting a cPC until they make it dual-boot into Linux. lol!