Official Unveiling of Origami UMPCs

March 9, 2006

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

Related Tags: Microsoft, microsoft, mobile, Origami, screen, origami