Just an update that Microsoft has officially unveiled its design for Ultra-Mobile Personal Computers (UMPCs) at the CeBIT show in Germany. Previously sources revealed that Microsoft's mysterious Origami Project consisted of a paperback-size PC and that it would include VoIP capabilities.
Here's a good story from the Associated Press today with many details: "Microsoft unfolds Project Origami to reveal ultracompact PC running XP." Also see Microsoft's press release here for some good comments from Bill Mitchell, VP for Windows mobile platforms.
Here's a photo of Samsung's Q1 Ultra-Mobile PC:
AP says Samsung, Asus and Founder have built working models based on the UMPC technology and that the devices should retail at $500-$1,000 once they are available sometime in the next two months.
The machines will use button, pen and touch-screen input but will have a USB port so a keyboard can plug in. Microsoft says its pre-installed Touch Pack for Windows XP software will also include a thumb-based on-screen keyboard. Devices will weigh less than two pounds, with a seven-inch screen. Hard drives should be available between 30 GB and 60 GB. Units will have battery life of 2.5 to 3 hours.
AB -- 3/9/06
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