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Ultra Mobile PCs Becoming a Reality
Linda A. Epstein
Febuary 2006
Microsoft Mobile Platforms Division Partner Briefing
February 1-2, 2006
Microsoft Campus, Redmond Washington
Just when those of us in the Tablet PC community had settled in an come to terms with the idea that on the hardware side all would be quiet until Vista launches later this year, Bill Mitchell, Microsoft's Corporate Vice President of the Mobile Platforms Division renewed our interest and excitement when he tossed out the impending arrival of the Lifestyle - Ultra Mobile PCs at this weeks Mobile Platforms Division Partner Briefing in Redmond.
During his session on "Windows for Mobile Growth" Bill Mitchell made it clear that Microsoft was still 110% behind the Tablet PC. He also gave attendees a glimpse into the near future with the introduction of the Lifestyle / Ultra Mobile PC's that just may be here sooner than you think..
Tablet Momentum is Growing
Microsoft's Mobile PC Vision includes the Lifestyle / Ultra Mobile PC in the near future and the future may be closer than you think.
when Vista comes out users enjoy new Tablet features that have more natural input features such as flicks( input gestures), handwriting personalization, touch screens and searchable ink notes.
The vision of the Lifestyle or Ultra Mobile PC is a small but powerful Tablet PC device that is designed to go everywhere you do. A device that much like your cell phone, you will never leave home with out.
Below are the "Ideal Features" for the coming Ultra Mobile PC's
Price point: ideally the MSRP will be in the five hundred dollar range: Please keep in mind that this is the "Ideal" price point, the actual price point of these devices remains to been seen
Ultra Mobile PC's will be light enough and small enough in size so that they can be carried anywhere with ease.
Long battery life - Again, we ask that you remember that this is the "Ideal" everyone wants longer battery life and smaller devices, but be suspect that its going to take time for this to become a reality.
Always on, Always Connected, Always online - (Everyone's dream!)
Tablet PC OS with support for both Pen and Touch input
Specific manufacturers were not mentioned but we should have more details on these Ultra Mobile PC's in the next few months.
Editors note: once there is enough information available we will be launching a sister site UltramobilePCs.com
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