TMCnet News
Microsoft to unveil handtop computer(Business, The (London) (KRT) Via Thomson Dialog NewsEdge) Mar. 5--Microsoft is about to unveil the world's first "handtop computer" that will allow consumers to make free voice and data calls while on the move. For years, IT giants such as Intel have dreamed about developing a device that could fill the gap between a high-end mobile phone and a laptop computer. According to an Intel source, extensive market research shows that business users require a device that is less bulky than a laptop but still a serious PC. The delay in producing a fully-fledged handtop PC running Windows has been caused by the technical challenge of creating a lightweight compact device energy-efficient enough to run applications such as spreadsheets, PowerPoint presentations and open large e-mail attachments without constant recharging. Intel and its manufacturing partners refer to this type of product as an ultra mobile PC (UMPC). Last week, Microsoft was teasing the market with hints it was about to unveil the world's first UMPC and owned up to being behind a strange website that set techie tongues wagging. Called origamiproject.com, the website seemed to promise a new type of communication device, mysteriously proclaiming: "I am everywhere you are but never in the way", promising to reveal more on Thursday -- which coincides with the world's biggest technology show, CeBIT, held every year outside Hanover. A Microsoft spokesperson told The Business that Origami refers to "a new category of mobile PCs that will run Windows XP". The spokesperson added that "Origami is a concept we've been working on with partners". This would mean wi-fi connectivity and will represent a threat to mobile operators. The new Microsoft business software application Office will carry internet voice software (VoIP) that will enable users to make free voice calls. |