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September 7, 2006
Plan B for Samsung's UMPC
Rumours that this new version would be be close to the US$500 price tag Bill Gates promised have proved optimistic. Samsung told us today that the new base price will be around £600 – still £200 lower than the current SRP.

The new units have VIA chipsets rather than Intel, though we're promised that processing power has actually been increased. The hard drive has also gone disappeared from the original, to be replaced with either 40GB or 60GB of flash, depending on the model.

Battery life is improved and the 60GB unit also gets high-speed HSDPA 3G data built-in. Unfortunately, we're told that it won't support 3G voice calls.


X 1.0 Orders 500 S-XGen(TM) Ultra Mobile Personal Computers
Seamless Wi-Fi, Inc. (OTCBB: SLWF) subsidiary Seamless Internet Inc. today announced that X 1.0, a leading PC systems integrator in the New York metro area, has ordered five hundred S-XGen™ Mobile Computing and Communications Devices. The S-XGen is the newest contender in the rapidly expanding Ultra Mobile Personal Computer (UMPC) class of minicomputers.

"The S-XGen will allow us to offer our client base a real computing and communications tool in a much smaller form than common laptops, but without the drawback of PDA-type devices -- namely, a keyboard you can really write on," said X 1.0 president Nathan Archer. X 1.0 was founded in 2004 and is recognized as a leading Value Added Reseller within the Tri-State area. "We are eager to get the first production units into the hands of our best clients so they can not only experience the benefit of the almost full-sized keyboard, but also the enhanced communications capabilities that the S-XGen's integrated cell service, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity affords the hard-core mobile business user."

"This is our second large order for the S-XGen, which in addition to the hundreds of validated online business and consumer reservations represents a very good indication of the market's desire and the true potential for this unit," said John Domerego, President of Seamless Internet.

The S-XGen reservation site is at www.slwf.net, where in addition to reserving an S-XGen, interested parties can view the device and specifications and register to receive Seamless News.

Seamless Wi-Fi also announced that due to the shortened work week and management wishing to maximize accessibility to the call, the Seamless Skyy-Fi investor update teleconference has been rescheduled for Wednesday, September 13th at 1:00 PM Eastern and 10:00 AM Pacific Time.

About X 1.0 Company
X 1.0's mission is to educate and provide to our clients the most advanced and affordable technological solutions. By offering complete sales, service and support of computer systems; designing and developing networking infrastructures; database development and management; customized software solutions; information technology training; website development; web hosting services; corporate brand and media -- our pledge is to be the support structure for clients' business infrastructure development and printing. X 1.0 will assist in these processes, providing managed services to streamline and protect critical mission data through viable, effective and efficient solutions.

Please visit our website at www.x1point0.com

September 5, 2006
Microsoft Announces Estimated Retail Pricing for All Windows Vista Editions
With Windows XP, customers often had to make tradeoffs in features and functionality as the Windows XP editions were aligned with specific hardware types. With Windows Vista, customers now have the ability to make choices between editions based on the valuable features they desire, which are now available as standard features of mainstream editions. For example, 64-bit support and Tablet PC and touch technology are standard features of the Home Premium and Business editions.

Pricing information for all Windows Vista editions is available online, along with additional information on the various editions of Windows Vista.

Editor's Note: Suggested retail prices follow:

Windows Vista Home Basic:  Full package product, $199.00 USD. Suggested upgrade retail price, $99.95 USD.
Windows Vista Home Premium:  Full package product, $239.00 USD. Suggested upgrade retail price, $159.00 USD.
Windows Vista Business:  Full package product, $299.00 USD. Suggested upgrade retail price, $199.00 USD.
Windows Vista Enterprise: Not available at retail. This is only available for MS Volume License customers
Windows Vista Ultimate:  Full package product, $399.00 USD. Suggested upgrade retail price, $259.00 USD.

Microsoft to Broaden CPP Program for Windows Vista RC1
Microsoft is broadening the scope of the Windows Vista Customer Preview Program, which began last quarter with the release of Windows Vista Beta 2. The CPP enables developers and IT professionals who do not have access to Windows Vista RC1 through other channels to obtain the code and begin testing. Also as part of the CPP, technology enthusiasts are able to obtain pre-release code and begin testing the various consumer scenarios Windows Vista enables. Current CPP participants are scheduled to have access to the RC1 code beginning this week, and Microsoft will be opening the CPP program to new participants in the following days. Microsoft will post RC1 to its MSDN^® and TechNet Web sites for subscriber download, and is working with publishers in various markets around the world to distribute RC1 DVDs to readers of a number of technology publications. In total, Microsoft estimates that 5 million users around the world will have access to Windows Vista RC1 across all distribution channels.

Half a Tablet (1/2) - TabletKiosk eo 7110 UMPC
To many, project Origami from Microsoft means flexiblity and mobility. The project was all about developing ultra-mobile PC's, or UMPC's for short. It filled the void in Microsoft's product area between Pocket PC and Tablet PC: what if someone wanted fuller functionality over a Pocket PC, but found a Tablet PC to be a bit too large? TabletKiosk was one of the first to the table with its version of a UMPC. Today we'll review Tablet Kiosk's eo 7110, and determine whether this device has any merit in the mobile devices..

September 1, 2006
Samsung Upgrades Ultra-Mobile PC
Samsung Electronics will introduce an upgraded version of its Q1 ultra-mobile PC with extended battery life, high-speed cellular and a new processor.

The Q1P, a successor to the Q1, will extend battery life to five hours and connect to cellular networks based on high-speed downlink packet access (HSDPA), Gee Sung Choi, president and chief executive of Samsung Digital Media Business, said Friday at the IFA consumer electronics show in Berlin.

The device, to be available in the fourth quarter, will also be equipped with a processor from Via Technologies instead of Intel, which supplied technology for the first model, a company spokesman said.

The spokesman declined to specify the reasons for replacing Intel, pointing only to a need to extend battery life.

The Q1P will include several additional interfaces, but the spokesman declined to provide details.

Pricing information was not available.

The Q1 device, launched earlier this year, runs a tablet version of the Windows XP operating system and is intended to fit in the market between laptop PCs and PDAs.

The new version takes advantage of HSDPA, which mobile phone network operators are rolling out with initial speeds up to 1.8Mbps. The technology is engineered for peak speeds of 14.4Mbps.

Samsung’s ultra-mobile PC already offers Wi-Fi connectivity.
-John Blau, IDG News Service (Dusseldorf Bureau)


Option To Provide GTM351E Embedded Wireless Module To Samsung Electronics - Quick Facts
Option N.V. (OPNVY.PK) revealed that it has to supply the GTM351E embedded wireless module to Samsung Electronics. Samsung would integrate the modules in notebooks and Ultra-Mobile PCs.

The company stated that the GTM351E embedded wireless module is the ideal solution for an IT manufacturer wishing to incorporate comprehensive broadband wide area wireless connectivity into laptop, portable, and mobile devices.

Option noted that the new products, the Notebook Q40 and a new model of the Ultra-Mobile PC, would be showcased at the Berlin Messe IFA and the Notebook Q40 and Ultra-Mobile PC enable wireless broadband access thus empowering the user to view, listen, play, chat, download, e-mail, connect to the corporate network and work anytime, anywhere.

Copyright(c) 2006 RealTimeTraders.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved

August 31, 2006
Apex - It's Not Just Sketching Anymore; Apex Unveils New Generation Products
Apex Software, the standard in sketching in the real estate appraisal market, unveiled today new products and services -- its fourth generation desktop software, Medina, its companion fourth generation mobility product, named Nexus, and an annual maintenance program to support them. The announcement was made in conjunction with its new product website.

Medina offers a simpler user interface, more flexible licensing options, and numerous usability features. It does not, however, contain any changes to its core integration code.

"Our customers have come to expect innovative product releases. We've delivered," stated Robert Smoote, Apex Software's Vice President of Product Management. "But they also count on us to ensure smooth integration with other appraisal packages. Medina uses the exact same integration tools as our previous version and is designed to be a drop-in replacement for integration with their other software."

Medina not only addresses many of the major desires of current users, but is also a link to Nexus, an appraisal field solution that runs on Ultra Mobile PCs and Tablet PCs.

"Nexus will take our customers to the next level of field appraising. Its revolutionary design to address work flow, sketching and data gathering renders the use of pencil and paper obsolete," adds Smoote. "Couple that with our coming GIS capabilities and the mobile devices available today and our users have the perfect field solution. Nexus is truly revolutionary and will have a huge impact on the mobile industry."

"Additionally, our new maintenance program provides more than live technical support, unlike most companies. It also puts our customers on track to receive discounts for our Continuing Education Seminars, Training and other value added services such as free updates and versions to the software they purchase and a free Webinar.

Medina will be released in November of this year to the fee appraisal market. Nexus will be released to Australian valuers in September, to the U.S. mass appraisal market in October, and to the fee appraiser market in January. To view the new site and watch multi-media videos of the products in action, visit www.apexwin.com/v5/medina.

About Apex Software
Apex Software is a business applications developer serving 130,000 customers in the real estate valuation and the mobile professional markets. Apex Sketching Software, an industry standard, offers fast, easy, high quality sketching and enclosed area calculations. For more information, contact Apex at 800-858-9958.August 30, 2006

PhatWare Releases PenCommander 1.5 - New version optimized for Ultra-Mobile PCs; provides new user-level functions, improved performance, support for 32 single-stroke gestures and more.
PhatWare Corporation, a leading provider of software products and professional services for mobile and desktop computers, announces the release of PenCommander 1.5. PenCommander is a stand-alone application that features a powerful scripting technology and is now enhanced to support Microsoft Windows based Tablet and Ultra-Mobile PCs.

PenCommander allows users to employ the pen to call up commands that can control Tablet PCs and UMPCs in almost limitless ways, such as editing documents, inserting often-repeated text into documents and launching applications. To execute a PenCommand, simply write a PenCommand name on the PenCommander input panel. PenCommander is the best tool for entering repetitive data, accessing frequently used applications and documents, inserting time, date and signature, and overall extending Tablet PC and UMPC functionality and user's productivity. It provides a simple and fast way to access functions that typically take longer to complete.

In addition to support for Microsoft Windows based UMPCs, PenCommander 1.5 also includes an updated scripting engine, which supports new user-level functions and improved performance. Most commonly used keyboard shortcuts and PenCommands can now be assigned to single stroke gestures. The application supports 32 gestures.

PenCommander 1.5 has a new customizable user interface for Visual PenCommander, which provides an IDE-like environment for creating and testing new PenCommander scripts. PenCommander’s input panel can be made semi-transparent, allowing a user to view other applications’ windows under the panel.

"PhatWare is excited to improve the functions of PenCommander for Tablet PCs and UMPCs based on the suggestions we have received from our customers," said PhatWare president Stan Miasnikov. "We are eager to release the upgraded PenCommander 1.5 version to the Tablet PC and UMPC community."

PenCommander 1.5 for Tablet PCs costs $29.95, and can be purchased directly from the PhatWare Web site or any of PhatWare's network of authorized retailers. For more information about PenCommander 1.5 or any of PhatWare's other productivity solutions for mobile and desktop computing, visit www.phatware.com.

About PhatWare Corporation
Founded in October 1997, PhatWare Corporation is a leading provider of easy to use powerful software products and professional services for the mobile and desktop computing marketplace. PhatWare specializes in handwriting recognition, digital ink, note taking, and database and network management software development. The company exclusively manages development, support and distribution of ParaGraph, CalliGrapher and PenOffice handwriting recognition products. PhatWare Corporation is a Microsoft Certified Partner, Microsoft Windows Embedded Partner and Microsoft Tablet PC Premier Partner. To learn more about PhatWare, visit www.phatware.com.

August 29, 2006
Why do you need a UMPC?
UMPCs are slate Tablet PCs and need to be marketed this way
I am a daily user of the Samsung Q1 UMPC (see our Geek.com Labs coverage), and I find this small slate Tablet PC to be very functional and valuable in my life. Bob Russell posted a good article asking Why will people want UMPCs?

I think the article is a very well articulated statement that talks a bit about why the mainstream press isn't the problem when it constantly slams the UMPC format, but rather that the burden to show the power of the device rests with Microsoft and UMPC manufacturers. Kevin Tofel, James Kendrick, and I talk about this all the time on the MobileTechRoundup podcast since we think Microsoft really needs to focus its PR on the fact that the UMPC is a full slate Tablet PC in a smaller form factor. If you look at the price of slate Tablet PCs, the UMPC devices are priced US$500-$1,000 cheaper in most cases.

August 28, 2006
Einstein Technologies announced today the release of Tablet Enhancements for Outlook 3.0
TEO 3.0, the long-awaited add-in for Microsoft Office Outlook 2003 and 2007. TEO provides a tightly integrated pen-enabled experience for Tablet PC and UMPC users on the Microsoft Office platform. A full feature listing, pricing, and trial version can be found at www.tabletoutlook.com.

August 25, 2006
ASUS Introduces R2H Ultra-Mobile PC for the New Mobile Computing Era

7-inch LCD touch screen with handwritten input support and solid security protection - The R2H offers full PC functions and more!

ASUSTeK Computer Inc. (ASUS), a leading provider of high-performance notebook computers, today unveils the latest R2H Ultra-Mobile PC. With built-in high-resolution webcam, incorporated global positioning system (GPS) and biometric fingerprint authentication, the 7-inch ultra compact R2H is designed to fulfill the increasing need for an all-in-one mobile device that enables professionals to stay connected, productive and secured on the go.

Solid Security Management for Protected Computing
To give business travelers peace of mind, the R2H offers total data protection that meets the evolving security needs with both software and hardware solutions.

The protected computing starts with fingerprint authentication that grants strict access only to the designated owner. For the most accurate reading, t he electronic imaging mechanism scans fingerprint pattern from the live layer of the skin , bypassing any common skin surface conditions.

The exclusive ASUS Security Protect Management (ASPM) guards access to the device and network. U sers can choose to setup multi-factor authentication requirements for different security levels while enjoying the Single Sign On (SSO) one-time login convenience without compromising security integrity.

Intuitive Usage Experience
The R2H runs on Windows ® XP Tablet PC Edition with Touch Pack software and ergonomic hardware interface designs. With complete function keys laid out on both sides of the front panel, users enjoy comfortable operation to a full set of control keys, including mouse, scroll buttons, hot keys as well as on-screen keypad, all at the finger tips.
The feature-rich R2H is packed with computing, multimedia and connectivity functions. Built-in
Bluetooth 2.0 EDR ( Enhanced Data Rate), WLAN 802.11 a/b/g and high-resolution webcam offer extensive high-speed connection and wire-free video communication. In addition, satellite GPS provides a comprehensive travel guide that the users no longer need to deal with paper maps or ask for directions! The incorporated GPS antenna with a foldable mechanism allows convenient storage when not in use. Ultimately, the R2H empowers users to go anywhere, do anything!

R2H Specifications
Intel® Celeron® M ULV Processor (900MHz)
Genuine Windows® XP Tablet PC Edition
Onboard 256MB, DDRII 533, 1x SoDimm socket for expansion up to 768MB DDRII 667 DRAM support
7" WXGA touch screen LCD, ASUS Splendid Video Intelligent Engine
PATA 1.8" HDD 4200PRM 20/30/40/60 GB
Bluetooth® V2.0 + EDR, 3x USB, 1x SD Card-Reader, 1x GPS, 1x Finger Print Reader
23.4 x 13.3 x 2.8cm, 830kg

About ASUS
Ranks in Business Week InfoTech 100 for the 8th straight year, ASUSTeK Computer Inc. (TSE:2357) is a leading provider of 3C total solutions. Its product portfolio includes notebooks, motherboards, graphics cards, optical drives, information appliances, desktop PCs, servers, wireless solutions, mobile phones and networking devices. With strong engineering capability, ASUSTeK won 1706 awards in 2005, translating to more than 4 awards per day. The company is the perennial leader of the motherboard and graphics card industries and a top 4 maker globally for notebooks.

 

August 21, 2006
Samsung launches disk-free Q1/Q30 portables

August 17, 2006
Solid-state ultra-mobile PC goes on sale - Samsung offers world's first portable PC with no moving parts - and gives its laptops HSDPA mobile broadband

August 14, 2006
MobileSketch(TM) Moves Sketching Forward; Apex Announces MobileSketch Version 3 Release
Apex Software, the standard in sketching in the real estate valuation market, announced today the release of MobileSketch(TM) Touch Tablet Version 3.

MobileSketch Touch Tablet was designed to empower users to quickly and easily draw sketches in the field using a Tablet PC or Ultra Mobile PC. Version 3 is designed to take full advantage of the functionality and form factor of the mobile device making it an invaluable tool to mobile professionals.

"Our goal was to eliminate the need for the clipboard," said Randall H. Garrett, President and CEO of Apex Software. "With MobileSketch v3, mobile professionals don't need anything more than their Tablet PC to get their job done faster and more effectively."

MobileSketch contains the most commonly used features from both previous versions and the Apex desktop application. Additionally, MobileSketch features have been fine tuned to address mobile usability including a high-contrast user interface for optimum viewing in the field.

"MobileSketch represents a dramatic step forward for the mobile professional," stated Robert Smoote, Apex Software's Vice President of Product Management. "MobileSketch v3 incorporates full-featured integration eliminating the need for the desktop solution as its conduit for data exchange with other applications on the same device."

For more information, visit www.apexwin.com.

About Apex Software - Apex Software is a business applications developer for the real estate valuation and for the mobile professional markets. Apex Sketching Software, an industry standard, offers fast, easy, high quality sketching and enclosed area calculations. For more information on software, hardware, and bundle solutions, contact Apex at 800-858-9958.

August 10, 2006
Imagine LAN Announces UltraSyncT Software for Ultra-Mobile PCs
UltraSyncT software from imagine LAN provides comprehensive digital content synchronization (files, music, pictures, video, OutlookR email, and browser favorites) between an Ultra-Mobile PC and its companion PC.

For more information about UltraSyncT and other imagine LAN products, visit the company's Web site at http://www.imaginelan.com. imagine LAN is located at 74 Northeastern Blvd., Suite 12, Nashua, NH, 03062.

August 6, 2006
First Look: Franklin Wireless USB EVDO Card
This revolutionary product will enable Tablet PC and Mac laptop and desktop users that do not have a PCMCIA card slot to connect to the Internet or company information with broadband-like download speeds using Sprint Mobile Broadband Services operating on the Sprint Power Vision Network. Not much information is out on this card but our early tests have shown remarkable speeds! Previous ultra mobile portables have had the "ball and chain" by tethering their EVDO phones/pda's but now those days are over and it looks like Sprint beat everyone to the punch!

August 1, 2006
Tablet Enhancements for Outlook v.3 Announced

New features include:

TabletKiosk™Announces the Newest Members of its UMPC Family - Introducing the eo™i7200 Series of Intel based UMPCs
TabletKiosk™, a leader in mobile computing solutions, today announced the launch of eo™ i7209 and eo™ i7210 the newest additions to the company’s family of ultra-mobile computing solutions.

TabletKiosk continues to advance the Ultra-Mobile PC (UMPC) platform by offering innovative features to maximize productivity and encourage on-the-go use. The two new models, powered by Ultra Low Voltage processors from Intel Corporation, are as follows:

eo™ i7210 Intel® Pentium® M 1.0 GHz ULV / 1.0 GB DDR2 RAM / 60 GB HDD
eo™ i7209 Intel® Celeron® M 900 MHz ULV / 512 MB DDR2 RAM / 30 GB HDD

“We are pleased to be working with TabletKiosk on the Ultra Mobile PC (UMPC) category," said Brad Graff, Intel's UMPC marketing director. "These TabletKiosk UMPCs are based on Intel's low power technology and represent early examples of this category, which is expected to grow significantly over the next few years."

Featuring the latest advancements in mobile computing, the eo™ i7200 series incorporates an integrated 1.3 Mega pixel CMOS camera with video capture capabilities, as well as a built-in, 4-in-1 media card reader (supports SD/SDIO/MMC/MS) for taking and sharing digital photos and videos. For easy connectivity to the internet or SOHO networks, both units feature 802.11 b/g wireless LAN and Bluetooth v1.2.

The eo™ i7200 series comes preloaded with Microsoft® Windows® XP Tablet PC Edition 2005 with Touch Pack and is certified Microsoft® Windows Vista™ capable.

For ultimate convenience, the eo™ i7200 series features a 7” LCD touch screen with handwriting recognition, an on-screen keyboard, voice recognition, and external control devices, including a full roaming thumb joystick and dedicated left and right mouse buttons.

The eo™ i7200 series comes bundled with the eo™ i72DC Docking Cradle which adds features to offer the flexibility and usability of a desktop PC. Sporting four additional USB 2.0 Ports, a 10/100 Mbps Ethernet Networking Port, S-Video Out and VGA Out with Dual monitor support, the eo™ i7200 series can be used in conjunction with the most popular computing accessories, including monitor, mouse and optical drive.

“With the launch of the eo™ i7200 series, we are pleased to introduce many of the new features and technological advancements that are bringing greater visibility to the UMPC platform,” said Martin Smekal, president of TabletKiosk. “When presented alongside our previously released eo™ v7110, we now offer our customers a broader range of options to meet their specific mobile computing needs.”

eo™ i7200 Series Fast Facts:
1.8" IDE Hard Drive
Intel 915GMS with embedded 3D engine with Full DirectX 9 Compliance
Dual display support
1.3 Mega pixel CMOS camera with video capture capability
4-in-1 Card Reader (supports SD/SDIO/MMC/MS)
802.11b/g Wireless Networking
Bluetooth v1.2 (v1.1 compatible) built-in USB 2.0 compliant module
HD 7.1 channel audio
2x USB 2.0 / Headphones Out / Microphone In
Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack
7” WVGA touch screen display (80 gram)
Dimensions: 8.88” W x 5.67” H x .98” D
Weighs 1.83 lbs. (with battery pack)
Ships with Microsoft Tablet Education and Experience Pack pre-installed
Integrated Computer Stand
Screen rotation supports portrait and landscape mode
Fingerprint resistive casing

To meet the unique mobile computing needs of today’s businesses, TabletKiosk offers and is currently developing a broad range of “Smart Business” accessories for the eo™ i7200 series. These include a portfolio case, ruggedized bump case, outdoor LCD screen and magnetic stripe reader to provide ultimate flexibility in the way that eo™ is used, handled and carried. Many of these accessories were developed originally as custom solutions for our enterprise partners who utilize the UMPC platform to help run their everyday businesses in a whole new way. Now, these accessories are available for the benefit of all of TabletKiosk’s customers.

Pricing and Availability
eo™will begin shipping by the end of August, 2006. For additional details, pricing and to pre-order, please visit www.TabletKiosk.com.

About TabletKiosk™
TabletKiosk™ is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sand Dune Ventures Inc. a privately held technology incubator. The company produces slate style Tablet PCs, UMPCs and exhibit-centric computing solutions marketed through an authorized reseller channel and directly through the company website. For more information, visit www.TabletKiosk.com

Samsung Q1 Ultra Mobile PC Review
The Samsung Q1, the first UMPC released in the market, is attractively designed and well built. We soon grew fond of it and would highly recommend it to executives, journalists, road warriors and the likes desiring a small but immensely robust PC alternative with portable computing qualities not available in tablet and ultra-portable notebooks.

For its impressive multimedia and portable computing qualities, the Q1 gets our major approval as a handy travel companion on long-distance flights, daily commuting trips and the likes. And because it packs a CF card reader, the Q1 also presents itself as a valuable tool for photographers as well. The bundled Microsoft's Journal allows one convert the Q1 into a 'real notebook' to take down notes quickly by scribing directly on the screen by means of the stylus input.

July 28, 2006
Research company sees growth ahead for Tablet PCs - The Tablet PC market is set for steady growth between now and the end of the decade, research firm In-Stat said Wednesday.
The Tablet PC market is set for steady growth between now and the end of the decade, research firm In-Stat said Wednesday.

However, the biggest hurdle to this growth could come from the Tablet PC's main backer, Microsoft Corp., if that company decides it is serious in promoting a new lower-priced, consumer-oriented product category, In-Stat said.

The Tablet PC market is due to grow from US$1.2 billion in 2004 to $5.4 billion in 2009, with the U.S. remaining the biggest market followed by Europe then Asia, according to Brian O'Rourke, a senior analyst at the company. In-Stat classifies Tablet PCs as devices that run the Windows XP Tablet PC Edition operating system.

To date, Tablet PCs have been more expensive than notebook PCs and used mainly in vertical markets such as health care, real estate and insurance, O'Rourke said.

But there signs that companies outside of these specialist markets are beginning to purchase the machines for use by middle managers. One of the main reasons for the growing, if still limited popularity, of these devices is falling prices. Average prices for Tablet PCs have dropped well below $2,000 this year, he said.

O'Rourke declined to reveal In-Stat's forecast for unit shipments.

In-Stat's findings come after Microsoft signalled several times that it is still committed to the Tablet PC more than three and a half years after Bill Gates, the company's chairman and chief software architect, predicted that they would become the most popular form of PCs sold in the U.S.

In January, Microsoft said it was working with PC vendors to push Tablet PC prices to within $100 to $200 of comparable notebooks and, in June, Gates reaffirmed that the company continued to invest in software improvements to help push Tablet PCs into the mainstream.

If Microsoft combines its Tablet PC operating system with the new Windows Vista operating system, formerly known as Longhorn, this could help push Tablet PCs into the mainstream, O'Rourke said. Windows Vista is due in 2006.

But Microsoft could quite easily kill off the Tablet PC market, too, he said.

In April, at the Windows Hardware Engineering Conference, Gates announced that he was considering pushing a potential rival portable computing platform into the market called Ultra Mobile 2007.

In remarks posted on Microsoft's web site, Gates said he envisioned Ultra Mobile 2007 as a new category of device that would cost between $800 and $1,000, and weigh as near to a pound as possible. These devices would have a consumer friendly bent and would integrate a camera, a phone, a touch-screen, and offer music and video playback functions along with very long battery life.

"The Ultra Mobile 2007 adds another portable PC platform to the market. If it coexists with Tablet PCs, it could detrimentally affect sales of Tablet PCs. Microsoft may intend the Ultra Mobile 2007 to succeed or even replace the Tablet PC," O'Rourke said.

While growth prospects for the Tablet PC look rosier, the devices remain a small slice of the overall market. Tablet PCs will not account for more than 5 percent of the notebook PC market through 2009, he said.

July 18, 2006
UPDATE 1-Intel marketing head moves to consumer unit
Intel Corp. said on Thursday that Eric Kim, hired with much fanfare two years ago to revitalize the chipmaker's brand, would drop his role as top marketer to head the company's consumer division.

Kim, 51, will become general manager of Intel's digital home group, which aims to help turn personal computers into media hubs capable of sending music, video and other content throughout a home.

Intel, facing slowing growth in the PC market, hopes the growing number of consumer gadgets such as digital music players will drive interest in new computers to help manage expanding libraries of digital content.

Kim joined Intel in 2004 from Samsung, where he helped transform the perception of the South Korean giant as a maker of cheap electronics and components into that of a maker of stylish gadgetry such as flat-panel TVs and mobile phones.

"We believe he's done a good job of revitalizing marketing and that the marketing is on solid footing," Intel spokesman Robert Manetta said. "He has expressed interest for a long time in running a business unit and his background at Samsung made him a natural fit for the digital home."

After assuming the newly created post of chief marketing officer last December, Kim set about overhauling Intel's brand by scrapping its 37-year-old logo and launching new initiatives such as its "Viiv" platform of media-oriented home PCs.

Sean Maloney, who has run Intel's hugely successful laptop and mobile unit, will replace Kim as the top marketing and sales executive, the company said.

Kim's marketing co-chief, a rising star named Anand Chandrasekher, will manage a new business unit focused on the "ultra-mobile" PC -- a new kind of computer that is smaller than a laptop but more powerful than a handheld organizer.

Santa Clara, California-based Intel said two other veteran executives, William Siu, vice president and general manager of its general platforms group, and Richard Wirt, a co-general manager of the software and solutions group, will retire at the end of the year for family and personal reasons.

The management changes were part of a corporate reshuffling to improve the company's decision-making process, Intel said.

In April, Intel said it was conducting a top-to-bottom operations review to cut $1 billion in costs. The company laid off 1,000 managers worldwide earlier this month. (Additional reporting by Kenneth Li in New York)

Ultra-mobile PC sales fall short of expectations; rivals sprint with low-priced models
Posh and upscale brand image doesn't work all the time, and Samsung Electronics Co., the country's largest electronics maker, is learning the lesson the hard way in its once formidable PC business.

The company has long pursued premium brand strategy for its sprawling product portfolio including mobile handsets and PC. It had made tremendous "sense," helping Samsung's "Sens" PCs including laptops keep a slot at the upper end of brand image.

Daewoo Lucoms Solo M1 UMPC
Daewoo Lucoms apparently decided to get into the ultra-mobile PC (UMPC) game, shipping its handsomely-styled Solo M1 which has a 7-inch touchscreen, 1.3-megapixel video camera and a DMB TV tuner for those Asians fortunate enough to have access to such signals. It's powered by an Intel Celeron 900 processor.

July 9, 2006
PC makers hope laptop size matters
Tiny laptop computers — and huge, heavy ones — are hitting store shelves as PC makers struggle to grow in a mature market.
Sony Friday launched a laptop that's just 6 inches across and weighs just over a pound. Called the Vaio UX Micro PC, it's designed for business travelers and others on the go.

Dell introduced the other extreme in May, a hulking, 18.3-pound laptop with a leather handle called the XPS M2010, built with video gamers in mind. In June, Acer introduced a 17-pound laptop also designed for gamers. Samsung in May came out with an "ultra mobile" PC that weighs less than 2 pounds.

The goal is to have customers "say, 'Wow, look at that! That's innovative. That's cool,' " says PC analyst Samir Bhavnani at researcher Current Analysis. Such a reaction would help stimulate a staid market, he says.

July 6, 2006
VIA Delivers Single-Chipset Solution for UMPCs
VIA Technologies has released the VIA VX700 chipset to build on the success of the VIA Ultra Mobile platform in UMPC devices, enabling reduction of mobile form factors by up to 40%.

UMPCs (Ultra Mobile PCs) is an exciting new category of devices that can fit comfortably into a pocket or handbag enabling users to access and interact with their entire digital world wherever they go. Creating exciting opportunities for entertainment, productivity, and communication focused products the VIA VX700 is the next step in this mobile future, enabling smaller form factor “computing” devices with reduced power consumption and enhanced functionality. As the first single chip implementation of its kind for ultra mobile devices, the VIA VX700 continues VIA’s history of chipset innovation and blazes a strong path for a new breed of digital companions.

“The VIA VX700 sets a new industry milestone for functionality and performance in a single chipset package,” commented Chinhwaun Wu, Special Assistant to the President, Processor Platform Product Marketing, VIA Technologies, Inc. “Together with the VIA C7®-M processor, VIA can now offer a platform that breaks form factor barriers while maintaining comprehensive performance, a leading feature set, and ultra-low power operation for longer battery life.”

July 5, 2006
The Littlest PCs-Not quite a laptop, not quite a smartphone, it’s the future of mobile computing
Meet the ultra-mobile PC, a.k.a. UMPC: a seven-inch screen, Windows XP Tablet PC operating system, plus Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, all in a book-size package that weighs less than two pounds. It’s the vision of the Origami Project team at Microsoft, which recently unveiled design concepts and software for the devices. All Origami-certified UMPCs will feature the Touch Pack, a finger-friendly add-on to Windows XP with shortcut keys, large program icons and a split on-screen keyboard for rapid typing with your thumbs.

Is this Microsoft’s answer to the iPod—a juiced-up, highly capable media player? Unlikely. Analysts say the company is just testing the waters for consumer interest in the small (though not quite pocketable) devices.

July 3, 2006
Improve Your Tablet PC Experience with Windows Vista - although written for full Tablet PCs, the Vista Tablet PC operating system will be on Origami PCs

June 26, 2006
Windows Vista WDDM Explained
I've written a synopsis of a soon-to-be released white paper about Windows Display Driver Model for The Hive.  Windows Display Driver Model (WDDM) drivers and Vista have been a topic that a lot of us have already tried to cover on our sites. Microsoft is releasing a white paper on ‘Unlocking the Next-Gen Windows Desktop Experience.’ The paper itself will be released on TechNet, and possibly The Hive as well, but in the meantime, I’ll try to highlight some of the things covered.

For those of you who aren’t familiar with WDDM, it’s a new architecture that will be seen in Vista. These display drivers will give users a much improved graphics experience in Windows Vista. You’ve probably heard of AeroGlass in Vista and Aero needs WDDM drivers to work.

ASUS Adds New AuthenTec Fingerprint Sensor to Second PC; Biometrics Provide Extreme Security for New Notebook PCs; EntrePad 1610 is World's Smallest Sensor, with Industry's Most Trusted Security
ASUS, one of the leading providers of advanced mobile computing technology, has become the first manufacturer to introduce multiple PCs using AuthenTec's new EntrePad 1610 - adding the sensor to its second notebook PC in the past month.

ASUS added the newest sensor from AuthenTec - the world leader in fingerprint sensor security, innovation and sales -- to its new F2 notebook PC. The EntrePad 1610 is integrated with the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) as part of ASUS' total security management solution that protects data integrity via both software and hardware features. The sensor is an integral part of the trusted security chain -- from initial authentication through the entire TPM security platform.

ASUS recently became the first manufacturer to take advantage of the EntrePad 1610's small size and extreme security in an ultra-mobile PC when it integrated the sensor into its new R2H Ultra-Mobile PC.

The EntrePad 1610 replaces the need for passwords -- allowing authorized users to easily and quickly access their favorite computer applications or internet web sites by simply sliding their finger across the sensor surface. At the same time, the sensor restricts access to the computer and its files to only those enrolled - reducing the risk of theft or fraud.

Launched in January 2006, the EntrePad 1610 is based on AuthenTec's patented TruePrint and TrueMatch technologies, which provide the highest quality fingerprint imaging and matching -- enabling the company's extremely small sensors to provide higher accuracy and reliability than even much larger competitive sensors.

The EntrePad 1610 also is the first sensor architected to leverage the breadth of existing industry security platforms - including the Trusted Computing Group's (TCG) version 1.2 Trusted Platform Module (TPM) specifications and Microsoft Vista Secure Startup -- and future platforms such as Intel's LaGrande technology. Leveraging these platforms provides the most trusted security and helps ensure that the sensor meets future industry standards.

"AuthenTec's fingerprint sensor plays a fundamental role in PC protection, enabling ASUS notebook users to implement our total security solution in the most convenient manner," said ASUS' Global Notebook Manager David Kao. "We selected AuthenTec's EntrePad 1610 because it represents the most trusted security in the smallest solution on the market."

"We are excited that ASUS is pioneering the use of small, trusted fingerprint sensors to provide advanced security for their newest PCs. The EntrePad' 1610's small size and extreme security are perfect additions to notebook, tablet or desktop PCs," said Tom Tombler, manager of PC segment market development for AuthenTec.

About ASUS
ASUSTeK Computer Inc. (TSE:2357) is a leading provider of 3C total solutions. Its product portfolio includes notebooks, motherboards, graphics cards, optical drives, information appliances, desktop PCs, servers, wireless solutions, mobile phones and networking devices. With world-class engineering and offices and subsidiaries located in all corners of the world, ASUSTeK provides innovative solutions to consumers, businesses and OEM/ODM customers, and has won 1706 awards in 2005, with recognition in design excellence from iF Gold Award, while ranks in the tops of Business Week InfoTech for the 8th straight year. The company is the perennial leader of the motherboard and graphics card industries and a top 4 maker globally for notebooks.

About AuthenTec
With more than nine million sensors in use worldwide, AuthenTec is the world leader in fingerprint sensor security, innovation and sales to the PC, wireless, and access control markets. AuthenTec's award-winning FingerLoc(R) and EntrePad(R) sensors take full advantage of The Power of Touch(TM) by utilizing the company's patented TruePrint(R) technology to deliver the most convenient, reliable and cost-effective means available for enabling touch-powered features that extend beyond user authentication. The company's network of partners, solution providers and customers include: Analog Devices, APC, ASUSTek, Compal, Cherry, Fujitsu Computer, Computer Associates, HP, IBM, Lenovo, LG Electronics, Microsoft, Motion Computing, MPC, NEC Packard Bell, Pantech, Quanta, Samsung, Tatung, Texas Instruments, Toshiba, and Wistron, among others. Visit www.authentec.com.

June 20, 2006
Pioneer steals ultra mobile PC march
Local PC builder, Pioneer, is launching what it claims to be Australia's first Ultra Mobile PC (UMPC).

Managing director, Jeff Li, said the DreamBook UMPC 700 - a tablet-style PC with a 7-inch screen - was the latest advance in bringing notebook power to a near PDA-sized device.

It is powered by a 1GHz Via chipset and comes with 512MB of memory, upgradeable to a maximum 1GB. It measures 228 x 146 x 25mm and weighs 850g. It runs on Windows XP Tablet PC Edition.

Li was hoping to sell PC 700s to both the education and mobiles sales markets.

"In Japan, our supplier has already taken an order for 10,000 pieces," he claimed. "It's cute and convenient."

Li said Pioneer would launch an even smaller model, with a 5-inch screen, in two months. Other local builders contacted by ARN had no current plans to offer UMPCs.

June 19, 2006
Samsung Q1 Ultra Mobile PC Receives Expanded Product Availability -Growing Q1 Sales Lead Company to Make Device Available at All Fry's Electronics Stores Plus Texas-Based Best Buy Stores
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies, today announced that it has expanded retail distribution of its new Samsung Q1 Ultra Mobile PC (UMPC) due to strong initial sales and growing customer excitement for the device.

Launched May 1 in the United States, the Samsung Q1 is now sold in all 32 Fry's Electronics stores and soon will be available at various Best Buy stores in Texas. Initially, the Q1 was sold via Best Buy's e-tail outlet, www.bestbuy.com/ultramobilepc, and at www.CDW.com.

"The Q1 was in high demand from the moment it debuted on the Best Buy and CDW websites," said David A. Nichols, Director, Display Marketing, Samsung Electronics America. "That demand is what's driven us to make the Q1 available at all Fry's Electronics stores plus the Texas-based Best Buy outlets. In addition, we'll soon be announcing yet another distributor for the Q1."

Developed in collaboration with Microsoft and Intel, the Samsung Q1 is among the first of a totally new category and form factor of PC -- a truly ultra-mobile unit that can easily be carried in a small briefcase, daypack or purse. Yet, the Q1 still offers the power of a PC that runs Windows XP Tablet Edition with an Intel Processor, 512MB memory and a 40GB Hard Drive. With its brilliant 7-inch LCD touch screen and integrated wireless communications capabilities that include WiFi and Bluetooth, it is a PC that you can use anywhere, anytime.

In addition, the Q1's AVS Now feature allows users to enjoy a host of multimedia, from video, movies, music and still photos to games and books, without booting up Windows. Further, the Q1's "inking" feature allows data to be directly input through the unit's touch-screen, with results similar to a handwritten note. This data is then stored as an image file.

Nichols emphasized that the Samsung Q1 wasn't designed as a replacement for current notebook or desktop PCs.

"The Q1 is a companion PC that allows business users, students and others to always have PC capabilities at the ready, in instances where desktops obviously won't work and even notebook PCs are impractical," he said. "One of the most intriguing aspects of the Q1 is the innovative way it combines PC functionality and connectivity in an ultra-mobile platform."

Thanks to the Samsung Q1's capabilities and portability, the device is rapidly finding robust demand among business-to-business users. Early markets include healthcare, logistics and shipping, sales force automation, and government. In addition, because of the unit's small size and touch-screen capabilities, consumers are enthusiastically embracing the Q1. Students are using the Q1 for classroom note taking, while people of all ages are using the Q1 for music, video, movies, gaming and viewing photos.

"The Q1 marks the next generation of devices incorporating PC functionality in a highly portable platform that's one-third the weight of a conventional notebook PC," Nichols said. "The Q1 positions Samsung as a pioneer and leader in the exciting and growing UMPC marketplace."

The Samsung Q1 retails for $1,099 in the U.S. Various options are available for purchase, including a USB keyboard, organizer, extended battery and a choice of three external optical disc drives.

About Samsung's Information Technology Division

Samsung's Information Technology Division (ITD), located in Irvine, California, is a division of Samsung Electronics America, Inc. (SEA), a U.S. subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Company, Ltd. (SEC). ITD markets a complete line of award-winning LCD and PDP display products, color and monochrome laser printers, fax machines and multifunction devices for professional, corporate and SOHO users. ITD also markets large-screen plasma displays designed specifically for the professional and commercial markets.

About Samsung Electronics

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2005 parent company sales of US$56.7 billion and net income of US$7.5 billion. Employing approximately 128,000 people in over 120 offices in 57 countries, the company consists of five main business units: Digital Appliance Business, Digital Media Business, LCD Business, Semiconductor Business and Telecommunication Network Business. Recognized as one of the fastest growing global brands, Samsung Electronics is a leading producer of digital TVs, memory chips, mobile phones, and TFT-LCDs. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com.

Initial feedback mixed on ultra mobile PC, says Samsung
Feedback from customers who have bought Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.'s Q1 device suggests that a pre-launch teaser campaign by Microsoft Corp. might have backfired, a Samsung executive said Monday.

The Q1 went on sale in the U.S. in May and is based on Microsoft's Origami platform. Microsoft collaborated with Intel Corp. to create Origami, which combines a tablet edition of Windows XP with a pen-based tablet computer similar in specification to a laptop computer.

"Feedback has been quite mixed," said David Steel, vice president of marketing for Samsung's digital media business, in a briefing with reporters at the company's headquarters in Suwon, south of Seoul.

A positive or negative response is generally related to how much of the pre-launch Origami hype the person had been exposed to, Steel said.

Over a period of several weeks prior to the platform's March launch at the Cebit trade show, Microsoft ran a teaser campaign in which it slowly disclosed Origami details. With few specific details released, expectations were quickly raised among IT professionals, bloggers and journalists about what Origami would be. At the same time a price tag of between US$500 and $1,000 for the devices became known.

Samsung's device debuted in May for $1,099.

Consumers who have encountered the Q1 with no prior knowledge are generally positive about the device while those who read a lot about the Origami platform prior to seeing the Q1 have been more negative, he said.

"Particularly from someone [with prior] understanding of Origami, [they have been] saying 'We expected this and expected that' and comparing specification and price with laptop computers," said Steel. But even though a laptop can deliver more, it comes at a price, Steel noted.

Any such comparison usually ends with the conclusion that a laptop can deliver more for an extra $1,000.

Samsung is looking ahead to a second-generation ultra mobile PC. In preparation the company is examining the user interface and how people interact with the device. The Q1 can be used with a keyboard, pen or via its touchscreen.

"It was always going to be a first test for us," Steel said. "We think it's a new market, we don't know how big, probably not huge compared to the PC market."

June 12, 2006
PC power for your car - Car gear Samsung's Origami was an instant success thanks to its features, including GPS and WiFi capability (Subscription)

June 9, 2006
Now that it's been released, the popularity of the Windows Vista Beta2 download could affect the internet.  Please order by DVD to be assured that you'll be included in the limited public preview.
Due the HUGE number of people who are trying to download the Vista beta, Microsoft is now highly recommending that you order the DVD. 

This looks as though Vista has generated the most download requests for one file in history.  This is a limited beta, so if that limit is reached before you get the download and key, you might not get it.

From Microsoft -
"1) We are hitting a legitimate threshold as to how fast we can serve up the bits without affecting the rest of the Net.
2)  People should consider ordering the DVD. 

While we are excited to see the huge demand, this is more about being good citizens and helping users who are waiting know they can order the DVD."

If you've already gotten a key, just return to the site and change the option to request a DVD.

June 8, 2006
The Tablet PC has a One-on-One Interview with Microsoft Windows Co-President, Jim Allchin
I was very honored to have the opportunity to discuss Windows Vista with Jim Allchin.  Read the complete interview on The Tablet PC.

June 7, 2006
Windows Vista Beta2 Public Preview Launched
To watch the official Launch video and get the download, check The Hive.  http://hive.net/Member/forums/thread/16124.aspx

The direct link to the download is http://www.microsoft.com/windowsvista/getready/default.mspx

COMPUTEX: Microsoft Still Working on Tiny Haiku PC - Origami ultra-mobile PCs are just part of a growing family of small PC devices.
The launch of the ultra-mobile PC hasn't quenched Microsoft's thirst to find a blockbuster product in the portable PC space. In fact, the company has continued to work on another mini-Tablet PC concept, the Haiku, and expects it on the market within the next few years.

"We'd like to see them out in the $500 to $700 range. The closer to $500 the better," said Otto Berkes, general manager of Microsoft's Ultra-Mobile PC operations, on the sidelines of a conference in Taipei on Wednesday.

The Haiku device he showed off at the Via Technology Forum was basically a display screen about the size of a paperback book. The idea is to use screen input methods to work the device, which would include a version of Microsoft's OS for Tablet PCs.

The original Haiku device was shown off by Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates during WinHEC last year. At the time, the company projected it might ship in 2007.

May 31, 2006
VIA Origami Prototype UMPC Preview - A PDA replacement? A "minitablet"? We try to unfold Microsoft's Origami Ultra Mobile PC platform with this prototype sent to us from VIA Technologies.

The Ultra Mobile PC Platform
Here we’ll look at the fruit of Microsoft’s “Origami” ultra mobile PC (UMPC) platform. MS started a viral marketing campaign recently that cryptically showed what looked like an overgrown media player. While not much was known at the time, there were plenty of rumors and pictures floating around that gave rise to some fairly accurate speculation as to just what “Origami” was all about.

The first such sighting was at the Intel Developer Forum in Japan of last year. Codenamed “Ruby,” mention of the device having a touch screen led to speculation as to just what OS it could or would run. With similar devices such as the Creative Zen running the Portable Media Center OS on top of an embedded Windows CE OS that lacked the ability to utilize a touch screen, it wasn’t until later that it was clear that “Ruby” was essentially a “minitablet” running the Windows Tablet PC OS with a specifically-tailored “Touch Pack” for easy program launching.

Indeed, in October of 2005 at Intel’s Destination Innovation event, it became clear that “Ruby” would run a variant of Windows XP. While touted as a sub-$500 “laptop extension” that had high battery life and could function as a “PDA replacement,” the first devices on the market fall short of the mark—they are heavy, run hot, and suck down batteries at an alarming rate. Oh yeah, and that $500 price point? They must have meant British pounds, because the devices on the market are showing up at over $900.

Update: VIA has let us know that US OEM TabletKiosk will be offering this unit for sale.

A Cryptic Package
We received our UMPC directly from VIA’s offices in Taiwan. Our generic Origami packaging made no reference to the ODM or distributor who would build or sell it. A little digging turned up “PBJ SmartCaddie” as the name for our device, although there will likely be different companies selling the design under different brand names. Initial pricing from Microsoft is $900.

May 30, 2006
No Q1 For Samsung OZ Yet
Samsung who have struggled in the Notebook market in Australia have refused to confirm if the new Q1 will be launched in Australia this year.

The device which was shown at a recent Sydney trade show was undergoing evaluation for the Australian market however several analysts who have played with the device say it is still a "gimmick with limited application capability".

Origami Skepticism - New Device Could Fit In Your Pocket, But Its Price Disappoints
I was at the trade show in Hanover, Germany in March where Microsoft, Intel, Samsung and other companies took the wraps off "Origami," the code name for a new type of Ultra Mobile PC (UMPC). I had mixed feelings about it when I had a chance to play with a prototype but now that I have my hands on the real thing, I'm even more skeptical. Samsung loaned me a Q1 to try it out for a couple of weeks.

In terms of its look and feel in my hands, my first impression was certainly positive. But since usability also counts, my lasting impression is not so positive – at least not for most mainstream PC users.

May 29, 2006
Sony to launch new type of multimedia computer in June
Asia in Focus - Japanese electronics giant SONY CORP. (TSE:6758) will launch a new type of multimedia computer in June, featuring enhanced portability and various multimedia functions, its Korean unit said Monday. "The VAIO model is the smallest and slightest pocket type computer in the world," Yoon Yeoeul, president of Sony Korea, said at a press conference in Seoul.

May 28, 2006
Reactions to Samsung's Q1 Ultra Mobile PC
The Samsung Q1 is in a "1 kilogram wasteland," said Leif-Olof Wallin, an analyst at Gartner, a technology research firm. He said it's "too big to put into your pocket and too small to do some real work on." But not all the comments about the Q1 have been so negative.

May 19, 2006
Sony Unveils Paperback-Sized PC, Challenging Samsung
Sony Corp., the world's second-largest consumer electronics maker, will next month unveil a paperback- sized computer that uses flash memory instead of a hard drive, challenging Samsung Electronics Co. in the handheld PC market.

The flash-memory chip based PC will be introduced in late June, said Yoshihisa Ishida, head of Sony's Vaio PC business, at a news conference in Tokyo. The PC will look similar to the Vaio type U model the company unveiled today. That PC will go on sale May 27 in Japan and retail for 170,000 yen ($1,500).

Sony and Samsung are targeting users who want portable devices that are more powerful than mobile phones and that, like a personal computer, can be used to surf the Internet, e-mail, word-process, and perform other functions on the move. Using NAND flash memory chips, which are light and shock resistant, may help Sony gain an advantage over similar products from Samsung which uses hard disk drives.

``There is an increasing number of people who are using smart phones and mobile phones, but the functions are limited,'' said Ishida. ``We want to provide something that can fulfill those needs.''

Worldwide PC shipments are forecast to increase 10.7 percent this year to 234.5 million units, with notebook PCs gaining 31.4 percent, according to a March report from market researcher Gartner Inc.

Microsoft, which is working with manufacturers to develop ``ultra-mobile PCs'' under a project called Origami, is betting users may buy the smaller devices as a second or third machine.

The Redmond, Washington-based software maker developed its Windows XP Tablet PC edition as the operating system for the ultra-mobile PCs. Sony's handheld PC will use Windows XP Home or Professional systems.

The almighty midget
COMPUTER manufacturers around the world are gearing up to support the latest contender for the title of next big thing. It is, in fact, a little thing, called an ultra mobile personal computer (UMPC).

UMPC runs Windows XP Tablet Edition, so it is equivalent to those tiny ultra-portables, but with no keyboard or pointing device.
It does have a souped-up touchscreen, including Tablet functions such as handwriting recognition.

Microsoft says UMPCs represent a new category in mobile computing: small, light, carry-everywhere hardware coupled with all the functions of a Windows-based PC and a choice of input options.

May 15, 2006
Ilium Software Announces Support for UMPC
Ilium Software, a market leader in the Windows Mobile Pocket PC and Smartphone software industry, announced today that they will include Ultra-Mobile PC (UMPC) versions of all of their programs in their future product releases. This announcement makes Ilium Software the first major PDA software developer to embrace the new UMPC platform.

"The UMPC is a natural evolution for users seeking a comprehensive mobile experience," stated Marc Tassin, Senior Product Manager for Ilium Software. "We're very excited about the prospects for this new platform."

The UMPC, also known as Origami, was officially announced by Microsoft on March 9th, 2006. The first consumer UMPC was released by Samsung on May 1st, 2006. Ilium Software is working directly with Microsoft to bring UMPC compatible versions of their software to the consumer. Ilium Software has a long history of working with Microsoft to bring out software for Microsoft's other mobile platforms, including the Handheld PC, Palm-size PC, and the Windows Mobile-based Pocket PC and Smartphone.

Ilium Software has been producing handheld and mobile software since 1997. Several of their titles are mobile platform best-sellers, as well as having won multiple industry awards. The UMPC platform has been the focus of a great deal of speculation and attention in the both the PDA and Windows communities, but the decision by Ilium Software to pursue the UMPC platform may provide an indication of the future direction of the mobile market.

"Ilium Software has always produced excellent software for Pocket PCs and Smartphones," said Hal Goldstein, Publisher of Pocket PC and Smartphone Magazine. "I believe that their decision to support the UMPC is an important indicator about the role the UMPC will play in the future mobile-device landscape."

Ilium Software plans to announce more details, as well as release dates, over the upcoming months.

About Ilium Software:

Founded in 1997, Ilium Software is a privately held, independent software vendor and member of the Microsoft Gold Certified Partner Program. The company produces and sells a family of award-winning utilities for mobile and desktop devices, including Ilium Software eWallet(R), ListPro(R), NewsBreak(R), Keep Track(TM), and DockWare(R). Ilium Software was a founding member of the Microsoft Mobility Partner Advisory Council (MPAC), a unique partner program developed by Microsoft Corp. to serve as a focused feedback mechanism for Microsoft Windows Mobile platform development, and to provide leading companies with the tools and resources they need to bring the most innovative and successful mobility solutions to market. Complete information about Ilium Software and its products is available on the Internet at www.iliumsoft.com.

May 11, 2006
First Look: Ultra Mobile PC Head-to-Head - New devices from Samsung and TabletKiosk could be viable laptop replacements, but they'll put a dent in your wallet.
Samsung's Q1 and TabletKiosk's EO--the first systems based on the Microsoft/Intel Ultra Mobile PC specification--prove you can cram an awful lot into a small package. Both devices condense the best features of a tablet into a package that's less than half the size and weight of a typical laptop.

One of the things that is missing is the $500 to $1000 price that Microsoft and Intel had promised for UMPCs. My 512MB configuration of the shipping Q1 sells for $1099, and the shipping 1GB EO I tested sells for $1164 (TabletKiosk sells an $899 unit with only 256MB of memory). Those prices don't include an external optical drive, a keyboard, or an extra battery pack--all options many users will consider necessities.

May 10, 2006
Ultra Mobile PC's - The Future Of Mobile Computing
Just when we think we've reached our mobile limit, something always comes around to blow our minds.
PDA's hit the mobile business world and exploded into an overnight sensation. Laptops use to be a rare purchase, but are becoming almost as common as a regular desktop now. Tablet PC's haven't taken off like everyone had hoped, but they do have some great uses. PDA phones and other internet ready phones are almost a necessity, not only delivering email and internet, but now video and other mobile entertainment. What could possibly be next? How do you get better than what we have now?

Introducing the Ultra Mobile PC generation. What is an Ultra Mobile PC? It's similar to a tablet pc, but much smaller, and with a much more specific purpose.. to deliver information and entertainment "on the go", in a small form factor mobile pc. It would essentially be a cross between an internet ready pda, and a tablet. It will be larger than any pda on the market, but still small enough to carry around easily, without all of the bulk you get from a laptop.

May 9, 2006
Ultra Mobile PCs: Do you want to mini-size that?
I worked in an office once where I was given a "luggable," a type of early pre-laptop that was meant to be carried around from place to place. Because it was bulky and heavy, you didn't so much carry it as you did lug it around, thus the nickname. Today's notebooks are conveniently small and lightweight, and getting more lightweight every year. And the quest for portability has given rise to entirely new categories of computing devices, which can be put into a jacket pocket or purse...

...The constant desire for smallness, combined with the limitations and downward trends of the handheld market, has created a whole new creature: the Ultra Mobile PC (UMPC). Backed by Microsoft and Intel, several vendors have delivered this new type of handheld this year, in an attempt to combine the attractive size of the handheld, with the more complete functionality of a PC. The UMPC is based on a traditional PC platform, and is an attempt to overcome the inherent limitations found in other handheld devices. In-Stat reports that OEMs including ASUS, Founder, and Samsung have already introduced prototypes, and the UMPC is now taking center stage.

May 8, 2006
Tablet PC still in the annoying phase
The good news: Small hand-held computers are here. The bad news: They're not perfect yet.
Looking for a great PC that runs a fully fledged version of Windows XP but weighs less than 2 pounds?

Well, it's here, at least if you can live without the "great" part. The Samsung Q1 is one of the first computers made to Microsoft Corp.'s Ultra-Mobile PC specification, formerly known as the company's Project Origami.

It's a tablet-style computer, about the size of a trade paperback and at 1.7 pounds, only slightly heavier. It has a 7-inch screen with a few buttons around it, but no keyboard or mouse. If the Q1 were red, you'd think "Etch A Sketch" when you saw it.

May 7, 2006
The beige box PC versus lifestyle PC
As I flipped through the Sunday newspaper ad inserts today, I thought about what the PC industry needs to do to help people transition from the beige box PC to lifestyle PC. For decades the PC industry has been relying on the rapid changes in hardware components to sell the system. Almost every PC ad begins with the processor specification, and is then followed by memory, hard drive, display and operating system. Ten to fifteen words propose a use scenario around a page of systems, and there is little to support how someone might use the product beyond that....

...As when the Tablet PC was first released, people watching the Ultra-Mobile PC (UMPC) are hesitant about if it really offers what the ideal is and what “Origami” was built up to be in so many our minds.

Information can help solve this dilemma. People need more information. People need to be able to get hands-on experience with UMPCs, try out software that matches their own interests, learn how to deal with certain situations, etc.

In the absence of accurate information, people make things up. Let me repeat that again because it is critical. In the absence of information, people make things up. I’ll go one step further and say that in the absence of accurate information, people guess at who may be an expert who they can sufficiently rely on and unfortunately, may not always make the best decision. It happens.

I think it's wonderful that people are so excited by UMPCs. It is fantastic that "Origami" reached beyond early adopter, analysts, and the emerging enthusiasts. Now, people are slowly learning that Origami = Ultra-Mobile PC.

May 4, 2006
TabletKiosk™ Begins Shipping New UMPC Device - eo™ is the first UMPC available in the US market.
TabletKiosk™, a leader in mobile PC computing solutions, today announced it has begun shipping eo™, the new Ultra-Mobile PC (UMPC)
which is the first UMPC device available in the US market.

Powered by the 1.0GHz VIA C7-M ULV processor, a new ULV processor that provides longer battery life than traditional LV processors, eo™ was designed for ultimate productivity and convenience.

“TabletKiosk is to be congratulated for leading the way in the US market for this new category of device. eo™ brings together the best aspects of the Tablet PC with ultra mobility, enhanced multimedia capabilities, and a full connectivity suite,” commented Epan Wu, Deputy Director, CPU Product Marketing, VIA Technologies, Inc. “Integrating the VIA UMPC platform, eo™ takes full advantage of the VIA C7-M ULV processor’s ultra low-power operation for longer battery life, while still maintaining robust performance for a full range of mobile applications.”

eo™ comes equipped with Microsoft® Windows® XP Tablet PC Edition as well as with the new Microsoft® Touch Pak. Standout features of Touch Pack include the easy-touch Program Launcher and Dial Keys, which enable the user to input text directly onscreen
with their thumbs.

We’re very excited to see the first Ultra-Mobile PCs become publicly available for consumers,” said Otto Berkes, general manager of the Ultra-Mobile PC team at Microsoft Corp. “The eo is a marriage of great hardware and powerful new software such as Microsoft Touch Pack that presents a new and exciting way for consumers to stay connected wherever they go.”

With USB 2.0, wireless networking, Bluetooth connectivity, enhanced touch screen capabilities and voice recognition, eo™ was developed to meet the ever-changing needs of today’s highly mobile population. Smaller than a typical day planner, eo™ fits easily
into a backpack, handbag or briefcase and represents the new generation of mobile computing.

Pricing and Availability
eo™ is sold through the TabletKiosk™ website www.tabletkiosk.com, as well as a vertically integrated reseller network. Due to overwhelming response after the launch announcement, the initial shipment of eo™ is entirely sold out. TabletKiosk is currently
accepting orders for the second production run which is scheduled to ship at the end of May / beginning of June 2006.

About Tablet Kiosk™
TabletKiosk™ is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sand Dune Ventures Inc. a privately held technology incubator. The company produces slate style Tablet PC’s, UMPCs and exhibit- centric computing solutions marketed through an authorized reseller channel
and directly through the company website. For more information, visit www.tabletkiosk.com.

CompUSA has pinpointed tech-specific items that will give moms a technology makeover. According to Carin Falconer, vice president of technology services for CompUSA: "Every mom is looking for more organization, connections to the people who matter most and an escape from a hectic lifestyle. Now she has CompUSA Techknowledgists to help her pull it all together, and technology gifts for Mother's Day give her all the tools she wants."

Here's some advice for moms on what to ask for and how to ensure technology doesn't overwhelm their busy lives:

Embrace Organization

-- Let technology do the juggling -- Mothers' lives require consistent and on-going organization. Well-chosen tech gifts provide all-in-one tools to handle multiple schedules, e-mails and Internet access.

-- Gift idea -- The T-Mobile MDA ($499.99) integrates a quad-band phone with a Windows Mobile 5.0 PDA, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, a miniSD card slot, support for high speed data, email, text messaging, instant messaging and Web browsing. The phone can sync with email, contacts and calendar information on your PC.

-- Keeping tech in check -- Gift givers should consider adding a gift card for in-store installation or set-up to ensure the newly organized mom is off to a full-throttle start.

Plan an Escape

-- The great tech escape -- Even the most devoted mothers dream about getting away from it all. If they can't have plane tickets, a few quiet moments with one of the latest tech gadgets might just do the trick.

-- Gift idea -- Sony VAIO TV-PC ($1,989.99). This TV and computer in one is a small desktop with wireless peripherals, so cords are minimal. It's perfect for a kitchen computer station. It can be used as a PC, then switched to TV/DVR mode to enjoy a movie. Organizing home videos and digital pictures also is simple on this system, allowing moms to burn them onto DVDs.

-- Keeping tech in check -- When requesting in-home support from technology retailers, families should be sure to receive proper WEP-encryption for wireless networks to help prevent neighbors or strangers from using Internet connections or stealing personal information.

Keep Mom Connected

-- Memories waiting to happen -- Moms on the go want to stay connected to friends and family. Today's technology helps manage personal memories and takes scrapbooking into the digital age. Digital images are easier to share with friends and family and easier to store on an external memory device instead of a bulky photo box or album.

-- Gift ideas -- The DCR-SR100 Handycam(R) camcorder ($1,001.99) comes with a Carl Zeiss(R) Vario-Sonnar(R) T* lens for creating superior quality images. High-resolution imaging takes not only digital video, but also digital still photographs. Dolby Digital 5.1 Channel surround sound can be recorded with the built-in microphone.

-- Keeping tech in check -- A service plan for camcorders and digital cameras will ensure Mom's connection to the digital age is long lasting.

Can I Get a Little Support?

-- If all else fails, outsource it -- Busy moms don't have time for technology troubles. A gift of tech-support is the perfect wrapping for a high-tech gift.

-- Gift ideas -- Check retailers for support and service options such as:

-- In-store carry-in service

-- Next-day service at the home or office

-- On-the-spot assessments

-- Manufacturer warranty services

-- Keeping tech in check -- CompUSA's Carin Falconer encourages consumers to ask for training, service and maintenance. "Technology is the gift of choice for moms in 2006. Give her a great product and plenty of support so she can use it right away. Motherhood already has enough deferred gratification."

About CompUSA

CompUSA, Inc., a Dallas-based company, is one of the nation's leading retailers and resellers of technology products and services. CompUSA currently operates more than 240 locations in more than 90 major metropolitan markets across the United States and Puerto Rico. In addition, CompUSA's Web site offers an assortment of more than 170,000 items. Visit them at www.compusa.com.

A Big Question Unanswered by a Tiny PC
ACCORDING to legend, they teach you in journalism school to remember the five W's: who, what, when, where and why.

This week, Microsoft unveiled a new kind of computer called the Ultra Mobile PC — and has good answers to four of those questions.

WHO Microsoft designed the hardware concept and wrote the software for it, just as it has in past years with palmtops, cellphones and media centers. So far, companies like Samsung, Asus and TabletKiosk have signed on to make and sell Ultra Mobile PC's.

WHAT Earlier this spring, "what" was exactly what Microsoft wanted people to buzz about. In an Apple-esque attempt to use suspense as a marketing tool, Microsoft dropped hints about a mysterious project called Origami and doled out weekly videos with cryptic captions ("...do you know me? ... and how i can change your life?"). Origami — the Ultra Mobile PC — turns out to be a very small touch-screen PC. Microsoft recommends a seven-inch touch screen, two-pound weight, wireless networking and, of course, Windows XP.

At 9 by 5.5 by 1 inches, the resulting machine is either one of the world's tiniest Windows laptops — so tiny there's no keyboard, trackpad or CD drive — or a palmtop that's so huge, you need two hands to operate it.

Samsung's Q1 is the first Ultra Mobile PC. It's a shiny black plastic-clad slab that costs $1,100 — twice the price of similarly configured laptops. It bears two U.S.B. connectors, an Ethernet jack, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless antennas, a Compact Flash slot (for a camera's memory card) and a video output for a projector or external monitor.

Inside, there's a 40-gigabyte hard drive, 512 megabytes of memory and a 900-megahertz Celeron processor. If that sounds slow, you're right; this is probably the slowest computer you've used in years. Just turning on the Q1 takes over two minutes (40 seconds from hibernate mode).

May 3, 2006
ASUSTeK Computer Inc. Selects Bioscrypt's VeriSoft Application for Biometric-Enabled Notebook Computers
Bioscrypt Inc. (TSX: BYT - News), a leading provider of identity verification technology, announced today that ASUSTeK, a top-four maker of notebook computers, has selected VeriSoft as part of its new line of biometric enabled notebook computers. VeriSoft provides ASUSTeK notebooks with data encryption, support for multi-factor authentication and Single Sign-On functionality. The Bioscrypt VeriSoft product will be privately labelled as ASUSteK Security Protect Manager (ASPM).

According to Forrester Research Inc, as firms move more aggressively toward mobile platforms, new tools offer improved security, reliability, and manageability. Some vendors are adding integrated fingerprint readers and smart card authentication to improve system security and hard drive data protection to secure data in the event of a loss. PC manufacturers are also implementing the Trusted Platform Module (TPM), which uses a root key protected in silicon to enhance native Microsoft operating system file and folder encryption(1).

ASUSTeK recognizes that today's mobile workforce requires comprehensive protection technology to meet evolving security needs. A variety of ASUSTeK portable notebooks, including the new R2H Ultra Mobile PC (UMPC), provide the best security management options for protecting data integrity through both software and hardware features. The ASUSTeK ASPM system guards access to the device and any related networks using embedded multifactor authentication procedures managed by the Single Sign-On (SSO) function, allowing simple one-time log-in without compromising security.

"ASPM's feature-rich security applications allow end users to encrypt and decrypt sensitive information, including files, folders and account information such as user names and passwords," said David Kao, Notebook Product Manager, ASUSTeK Computer Inc. "ASPM's ability to work with multiple biometric sensors and third party security hardware, such as Trusted Platform Modules (TPMs), made Bioscrypt an obvious choice for supplying ASUSTeK with a robust security application for its notebook platforms."

With ASUSTeK integrating the VeriSoft application in their notebooks, Bioscrypt is continuing to execute on its door to desktop integrated security vision. With two of the world's leading notebook makers now shipping their product with Bioscrypt's logical access technology, the company's strategy of rapidly propagating this software into the market is further taking shape.

"We are pleased to be working with ASUSTeK to deliver a robust credential management solution that elevates the security of their notebook computers," said Robert L. Williams, President and CEO, Bioscrypt Inc. "As we continue to win business with PC manufacturers we are escalating the number of desktops that are compatible with our entire Door to Desktop(TM) solution."

About ASUSTeK Computer Inc.

ASUSTeK Computer Inc. (TSE:2357 - News) is a leading provider of 3C total solutions. Its product portfolio includes notebooks, motherboards, graphics cards, optical drives, information appliances, desktop PCs, servers, wireless solutions, mobile phones and networking devices. With world-class engineering and offices and subsidiaries located in all corners of the world, ASUSTeK provides innovative solutions to consumers, businesses and OEM/ODM customers, and has won 1706 awards in 2005, with recognition in design excellence from iF Gold Award, while ranks in the tops of Business Week InfoTech for the 8th straight year. The company is the perennial leader of the motherboard and graphics card industries and a top 4 maker globally for notebooks.

About Bioscrypt Inc.

Bioscrypt Inc. is a leader in identity verification technologies, providing solutions for converged physical and logical access, enabling unified authentication from Door to Desktop(TM). Bioscrypt's offerings simplify the task of implementing secure access to facilities, equipment and IT networks. The company develops and sells biometric embedded solutions, access control readers and identity and access management software to protect the physical and network assets of international government agencies and leading organizations in the financial services, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors. More information is available at www.bioscrypt.com.

Via demonstrates new generation of UMPCs
Developer of silicon chip technologies and PC platform solutions, Via Technologies, has announced that the company has taken major steps to meet the growing global demand of Ultra Mobile PC devices. These are based on 'Origami' platform developed by Microsoft that combines the functionality of PDA and a PC with advanced connectivity features.

According to Richard Brown, vice president of Corporate Marketing, Via Technologies, "With our new Via C7-M ULV (Ultra Low Voltage) processor platform we are taking major steps to provide the right solution for enabling the development of these innovative new devices, combining the best performance per watt operation in the industry with the smallest silicon footprint in the market."

Via first demonstrated the new generation UMPC devices powered by the Via C7-M ULV processor at CeBIT, Hannover, in March 2006, including the 'SmartCaddie' from Japan-based PBJ, which has already launched this product in the Japanese market.

Via is also seeing growing demand for Via C7-M ULV processor-based UMPCs in all other major global markets, and expects to see such products launched by partners in India in the second half of 2006.

"We are very optimistic about the potential of UMPC devices. In addition to meeting the needs of ultra mobile consumers, they are also ideal for a wide range of vertical applications such as healthcare and education," Brown added.

iControl Networks Expands the Use of the Web Through its Online Remote Management Service; Connects People to their Family, Home and Business
iControl Networks, Inc., a leading provider of active personal content via the Web, today announced the public launch of its Internet service that empowers consumers to manage what matters most to them - family, home and business. The secure online service dramatically improves one's lifestyle by providing a way to see, know and respond remotely to the comfort and safety of one's "life assets," their family, home or business - from anywhere at anytime.

Expanding on the promise of the Web, iControl's service delivers a new level of information and control. Users can manage their service in response to information that they receive and even re-configure how the system behaves, all remotely simply through their browser. For the first time, consumers have an online service that is easy-to-install, easy-to-use, entirely Web-based, affordable and comprehensive in the information it provides.

"We use the iControl service to track our kids going in and out of the house, to turn lights on and off, and to know all's well at home," said Jacob Friis, Father of three children and a homeowner in Arlington, MA. "I can control the system either from my cell phone or from any computer with a Web-browser. It is a neat system with a lot of advanced features."

iControl's online service is used for 'keeping in touch' with children when they are at home, checking in on vacation homes, watching after elder parents, managing a home's cooling and heating system, and even knowing the daily activities at a business. Beyond home and business use, iControl's services can be used in such specialized applications as real estate sales, property management and energy management.

Each user has a secure, personal portal that they access through a Web browser on a PC, PDA, or smart phone to configure, view and manage their iControl service. Through cameras, sensors and other devices placed at a home or business, users can get information about alarms, view or take pictures, and receive e-mail or text message alerts when devices are triggered. Further, they can set schedules for devices to activate, as well as pre-define actions when devices are unexpectedly triggered.

iControl offers a variety of Starter Kits and a range of accessories including wireless network (IP) cameras, door and window sensors, lamp modules, thermostats, emergency pendants, smoke detectors, water and freeze sensors, and more.

Pricing and Availability:

The iControl service will be available at the end of May. Starter kits begin at $599, and the monthly fee is $14.95 through iControl Networks. For more information and ordering, go to www.icontrol.com.

About iControl

Based in Palo Alto, CA, iControl Networks is a venture-backed software and services company that helps people manage what matters most to them -- their family, home, and business. It is the online service that enhances an individual's busy life, offering an easy, affordable, and centralized way to see, know and respond remotely to the comfort and safety of family, property or business -- from anywhere, anytime. To bring the company's service to market, iControl partners with service providers, Internet portals, telecommunications companies, elder care organizations and homebuilders. For more information, visit the company's Web site at www.icontrol.com.

May 1, 2006
Samsung Electronics Unveils Q1 Ultra Mobile PC at U.S. Launch Event
New Q1 Developed in Collaboration With Microsoft and Intel Sales Begin May 7 at www.bestbuy.com/ultramobilepc

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies, today announced the official U.S. launch of the company's new Ultra Mobile PC (UMPC), the Q1.

The company made the announcement at a San Francisco press event, where it also announced that the Q1 will be available at Best Buy's e-tail outlet, www.bestbuy.com/ultramobilepc, beginning May 7, and in select Best Buy stores later this summer as part of a collaboration between the two companies.

Samsung's media briefing included a live demonstration of the Q1, highlighting the ultra-portable product's performance, which is comparable to full-sized notebook PCs and makes up for certain shortcomings of PDAs and other handheld devices currently available. Mobility is what drives the Q1. With a wide 7-inch LCD with touch-screen capability and a weight of just 1.7 lbs., the device was one of the most talked-about new products in March at CeBIT 2006, the world's largest IT show.

"The Q1 is a good companion PC for the mobile professional that is looking for the freedom and flexibility of a small mobile device without having to sacrifice functionality," said HS Kim, executive vice president of Samsung Electronics Computer System Division. "This product marks the beginning of a revolution for PCs and PC use."

The Q1 is a collaborative project among Samsung, Microsoft and Intel Corporation and is the next generation of mobile devices to incorporate the functionality of a conventional PC with diverse mobile features.

"UMPCs such as Samsung's Q1 represent the beginning of a new era in mobile computing," said Bill Mitchell, corporate vice president of the Mobile Platforms Division at Microsoft Corp. "The Q1 Ultra Mobile PC is an easy-to- carry device with the convenience of a touch screen interface running Windows XP Tablet PC Edition. It's a great product for anyone on the go to stay connected, entertained, and informed with the full power of the PC."

Bluetooth and wired/wireless LAN come standard and provide the user with easy Internet access. Samsung's AVS function also allows users to enjoy a variety of multimedia -- movies, music, still photos, video and navigation -- without booting up Windows.

In addition to the ultra-low-power Intel CPU, Windows XP Tablet PC Edition and standard PC functions, the Q1 supports an "inking" function that enables the user to input data directly through the monitor screen, similar to a handwritten note. The data is then stored as an image file.

"The Samsung Q1 Ultra Mobile PC (UMPC) platform is a good example of the collaborative innovation between Samsung and Intel. This companion platform allows users to communicate, access information, be entertained and stay productive on the go," said Gadi Singer, vice president and general manager of Intel's Low Power Technologies Group. "We are aggressively driving low power technologies to enable this exciting new UMPC category."

The Q1 is expected to generate synergy for Samsung as it begins bundling the UMPC with its award-winning line of printers, monitors and other IT products in the American market, and examines ways to seek diverse solutions through its more than 15,000 IT resellers. It offers a unique, practical alternative for mobile professionals whose needs continue to expand daily.

"Successful businesses are beginning to see their communication needs moving far beyond what their wireless phones have to offer," said Scott DeTota, a director of Product and Partner Development at CDW Corporation, a leading provider of technology products and services to business, government and education. "Particularly in the real estate, legal and health care industries, deploying ultra-mobile devices such as the Q1 can provide organizations with competitive advantages by enabling them to securely and efficiently access, input, exchange and present corporate data."

The Q1 will retail for $1,099 in the U.S. Various options are available for purchase, including a USB keyboard, organizer, extended battery and additional band external optical disc drive.

About Samsung's Information Technology Division

Samsung Electronics America's Information Technology Division (ITD), located in Irvine, Calif., is a division of Samsung Electronics America, Inc. (SEA), a U.S. subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Company, Ltd. (SEC). ITD markets a complete line of award-winning TFT and CRT display products, color and monochrome laser printers, fax machines and multifunction devices for professional, corporate and SOHO users. ITD also markets large-screen plasma displays designed specifically for the professional and commercial markets.

SEA oversees the North American operations of Samsung's Consumer Electronics Division (CED) and Information Technology Division (ITD), as well as its subsidiaries including Samsung Telecommunications America. LP (STA) and Samsung Semiconductor, Inc. (SSI).

About Samsung Electronics

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2005 parent company sales of US$56.7 billion and net income of US $7.5 billion. Employing approximately 128,000 people in over 120 offices in 57 countries, the company consists of five main business units: Digital Appliance Business, Digital Media Business, LCD Business, Semiconductor Business and Telecommunication Network Business. Recognized as one of the fastest growing global brands, Samsung Electronics is a leading producer of digital TVs, memory chips, mobile phones, and TFT-LCDs. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com.

Origami PC maker has to scribble 'wait'
With Samsung planning a U.S. launch of its Origami tablet on Monday, the folks at TabletKiosk had hoped to already be shipping significant quantities of their rival device.

April 28, 2006
Hyped Handhelds
Excitement continues to surround Origami, the Intel and Microsoft handheld PC project that's now officially called the Ultra Mobile PC. In the United States, Asus and Samsung have each announced plans to release the tablet-like units, which will include a tool called Microsoft TouchPack that optimizes the touch screen for both stylus input and fingertip controls.

Editor's Note:  News sources tend to ignore the Tablet Kiosk's entry into the ultra-mobile market.  The eo is certainly a contender in my opinion!

April 27, 2006
Grappling with Origami
A first look at Samsung’s Q1
PC Advisor was treated to an in-depth briefing on Samsung’s Q1 mini notebook yesterday and is currently in the process of putting one of the first review models through its paces.

The Q1, based on Microsoft's 'Origami' blueprint, has been developed in conjunction with Intel. The Q1 will be the first UMPC (ultramobile PC) to be launched, possibly several months ahead of an Origami-based Asus unit.

Origami folds together several functions: highly portable notebook computing, a portable media player with MP3 and video playback, PDA-style touchscreen entry, multi-gigabyte storage and, in the case of the Q1, GPS navigation. An Asus spokesman informed us that its own iteration of Origami will sport GPS. He hinted that Asus’ take on Origami will be cheaper than Samsung’s £799 inc VAT Q1

April 26, 2006
Apex Software Named TabletKiosk(TM) eo(TM) Distributor; Apex Software Delivers TabletKiosk's New UMPC Device
Today, TabletKiosk(TM), a leader in Tablet PC and exhibit-centric computing solutions, named Apex Software as one of the first distributors of TabletKiosk's new Ultra Mobile PC, eo(TM).

In-Stat Reports New Personal Computing Segment Poised for Strong Growth
Behind the backing of industry heavyweights Microsoft and Intel, several electronics vendors introduced a new class of handheld consumer electronics device that attempts to offer consumer and communications functions, combined with a full-function PC. Based on a traditional PC platform, the Ultra Mobile PC (UMPC) overcomes many of the computing limitations associated with other Consumer Electronics (CE) devices, such as cellular phones, and the mobility limitations of existing PCs. High-tech market research firm In-Stat (http://www.in-stat.com) believes the potential for UMPC shipments could be as high as 7.8 million units by 2011.

Are We Ready for Ultra-Mobile PCs?
With the first Origami-based handhelds coming next month, some are wondering if these devices are ready for us.

On May 1, Samsung Electronics will start selling its Q1 ultra-mobile PC (UMPC), the first of a new breed of handheld device that Microsoft and Intel hope will change the way people use computers.

However, don't look for a revolution to happen overnight. "The opportunities are big but I think the turning point is still in the future, not tomorrow," said Dadi Perlmutter, senior vice president and general manager of Intel's Mobility Group.

"We are now playing with the first wave of something," he said.

Based on the Origami platform developed by Microsoft and Intel, Samsung's Q1 runs the Tablet PC version of Windows XP and boasts a seven-inch touch-screen LCD panel and a 900-MHz Celeron M processor. With a price tag of around $1200, Samsung expects to sell 400,000 of the devices over the next year.

April 21, 2006
A UMPC from Apple?
When Microsoft first announced something called Origami, nobody quite knew what it was. In the following weeks the Origami project became more clear since Microsoft was releasing new information every two weeks or so. The end result was a national anticipation as well as fascination with the new type of computer that was even more portable than a laptop. Well it seems that now the whole world has gone crazy with the Origami concept and to not so much our surprise Apple is getting ready to release their own version of a UMPC which means Ultra Mobile Personal Computer, or as many call it Origami. <Editor's Note:  Apple has filed for many, many patents as have other companies.  This doesn't mean that a product is going to be produced or marketed.>

April 20, 2006
Confusion over concept PCs
Prototype or futuristic laptops may look similar to toy computers or cellphones

Concept PCs are fun. Never mind that today's PCs look much more like the PCs of 10 years ago than like any of the concept PCs of the mid-1990s. The concept machines are still interesting to look at, and we can always hope some of the best ideas they embody will find their way into real machines some day.  ...

...Could have used it
If I’d had that prototype lap-top, I could have worked on the flight.

Of course, if I’d had one of the Ultra Mobile PC prototypes that Intel also showed — and that Microsoft announced the same week to end speculation about its “Origami” product — I could also have used it on the plane, though I doubt it would do for serious writing.

April 19, 2006
Microsoft Brings Programming to the Masses With Visual Studio Express
Company Brings the Power of Code to Growing Community of hobbyist Programmers Who Seek to Integrate Technology and Software Into Their Everyday Lives

At this weekend's Maker Faire, Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq: MSFT - News) will display how a variety of innovative companies are using its now-free Visual Studio® 2005 Express editions to bring the power of code to the growing community of 18 million recreational and hobbyist developers. Since the launch of the Visual Studio and SQL Server(TM) Express editions on Nov. 7, 2005, a strong community has built up around the products and the various editions have been downloaded more than 5 million times. Much of this excitement is due in part to the diverse range of partners that have chosen to take advantage of the Visual Studio Express editions to empower a wide range of software enthusiast communities and give them the resources to customize their experiences.

Microsoft also released new learning content on the MSDN® Coding4Fun Web site, providing tools and resources for the community to get up and running quickly. The Visual Studio 2005 Express editions now join the SQL Server 2005 Express editions as a no-cost offering within the Microsoft® application platform.

"Software has the potential to transform everyday lives. By making the Visual Studio 2005 Express editions available free of charge, we're putting the power of programming into the hands of an exploding community of recreational programmers," said S. Somasegar, corporate vice president of the Developer Division at Microsoft. "This community has asked for it, and we are excited to provide it."

Coupled with Microsoft SQL Server Express, the Visual Studio Express editions provide a tool that meets the needs of a wide range of software enthusiasts, including beginning Windows® developers, hobbyist Web developers, amateur game developers and even hardware developers. All the editions of Visual Studio Express will be offered as free downloads: Visual Web Developer(TM) Express, Visual Basic® Express, Visual C#® Express, Visual C++® Express and Visual J#® Express.

The Visual Studio Express and SQL Server Express editions will be on display for the growing hobbyist community at this weekend's Maker Faire in San Mateo, Calif. Put on by O'Reilly Media Inc.'s Make Magazine, Maker Faire is a family-friendly event designed to celebrate science and technology projects and the do-it-yourself mindset.

April 18, 2005
Microsoft Launches I Love UMPC Contest
Write an essay (no more than 250 words!) telling us why you think the UMPC concept is so great and what plans you have for yours once you get one. We’re looking for entries that fit the theme and are creative and original, and for our sanity, it helps if they’re well-written too. :)

Send your entry to umpcwin@microsoft.com by midnight PT on 4/28/2006. Open to legal residents of the 50 United States, and District of Columbia. Winners will be announced on the site the week of 5/15/2006.

Averatec to join UMPC market?
There are several sites claiming that Averatec will be bringing out a new small computer.  Is this a UMPC?  According to the specifications, the "AHI" is running Windows XP Pro SP2.  If it can come to market at the speculated pricing, running Windows XP Tablet PC Edition, it may be the first of these small devices that reach the price that we've all heard about. 

The specifications have been added to the comparison chart so you can see how it stacks up to other already-announced Origami devices.

April 12, 2006
Samsung, MS and Intel unveil ultra-mobile PC
Samsung Electronics, Microsoft Korea and Intel Korea said yesterday they will jointly launch a new type of the super-slim multimedia PC from May 1, attempting to create a new market segment targeting a growing number of users preferring diverse functions and seamless mobility.

OrigamiCar running on a UMPC prototype
Well, it's been a few days, but here as promised are a couple of photos showing OrigamiCar running on a real UMPC.

April 10, 2006
Origami To 'Become Media Center Extender'
Microsoft's Origami 'Ultra Mobile PC' could be about to add another string to its bow.

According to reports, Origami is to be fitted with Media Center Extender capabilities, allowing users to stream video, music and image content from their media center PCs to the device.

This isn't really surprising as Microsoft has yet to convince a sceptical technology press that Origami is adding a lot to the PC genre, so this small step seems logical.

Is it true? According to CE Pro, Microsoft has confirmed "there will be some kind of Media Center integration for Origami, but the exact implementation is still under development".

April 6, 2006
Why the UMPC will be successful - Part 2

April 5, 2006
Scheduling Software On The Move With Full Support For The Ultra Mobile PC Platform
ScheduleIt, a leading PC application for resource scheduling, goes one step further in the latest release with full support for the new Ultra Mobile PC Platform and Full Remote Synchronization.

ScheduleIt is an application designed to help individuals or businesses to plan any type of resource, task or event. It enables users to view, in a number of unique layouts, planned events with its associated expenses, documents, contacts or equipment.

The scheduling and planning of resources and/or events is an aspect of all businesses today. Having the information available to everybody, either local or remote, can be essential, and when this information is available it must be easy to interpret. ScheduleIt has provided all these benefits to individuals and businesses for many years and is now celebrating the major release of version 3.5 with enhanced remote synchronization and full UMPC support.

ScheduleIt gives users a set of visual tools for displaying the information, all tailored to suit many different individual and business models. Views range from single day, resource, weekly, monthly, yearly and include schedule and Gantt style layouts.

The combination of the Ultra Mobile PC and ScheduleIt together allow all users to plan events for individuals or an entire company and if necessary synchronize these changes with a master project. Any changes to an event, expense, attachment, contact or equipment are all synchronized. The user base can be a combination of office and remote users all sharing and updating simultaneously a common project or database.

Users range from individuals using the application as a diary and expense tracking program to national hospitals and accommodation providers. ScheduleIt is currently scheduling and planning up to 2.2 million resources, with hundreds of users worldwide.

The application is available now for immediate download and free 30-day trial. ScheduleIt can be downloaded from http://www.scheduleit.co.uk

April 4, 2006
The latest from Microsoft and Apple raises the question: what's next?
With gizmos and gadgets galore, it is difficult these days to keep up with cutting-edge technology. You learn how to use a computer for simple tasks and then all of a sudden you find yourself truly confused about how to work the newest device.

The college community has become a major consumer of any type of portable music player. Sure, there have long been Sony Walkmans and portable CD players, but recently the rapid growth of iPod-mania has invaded the industry.

Devices are getting smaller and smaller and technological capabilities are advancing to the age of touch screen machines and tiny pocket-sized processors.

The device, originally code named the “Origami Project,” is one of the newest inventions in the consumer technology world.

“I go wherever life takes you, I’m your go-everywhere, do-everything mobile device,” a Microsoft press release said.

March 31, 2006
Origami, up close
The crowd at Seattle's Espresso Vivace Roasteria barely noticed, but Otto Berkes was there recently using one of the first models of Microsoft's super-hyped "Origami" handheld computers.

Berkes led development of the concept, software and design guidelines that computer makers are using to build the devices. They'll go on sale in April as Ultra-Mobile PCs — Origami was a code name — for about $1,000.

The Origami Master
Otto Berkes, who led Microsoft's "Origami" handheld PC project, took time last week to show us the Samsung model going on sale next month in the U.S. We're running a photo-story package in our Business section today, along with video of Berkes with the device.

Samsung Q1 gets UK price
Microsoft may have suggested at the launch of its UMPC devices at CeBit that customers should be expected to pay around $500 for the privilege, but it seems that manufacturers and retailers of the new devices have other plans.

Expansys in the UK has just announced that it will be charging customers looking to pick up Samsung’s new Q1 Ultra Mobile PC £799.95.

March 27, 2006
TabletKiosk™ Introduces New UMPC Device
eo™ offers exciting new opportunities for mobile computing users

TabletKiosk™, a leader in Tablet PC and exhibit centric computing solutions, announces the much anticipated launch of their new Ultra Mobile PC, eo™ which will begin shipping the last week of April 2006.

eo™ represents the new generation of mobile computing. Measuring 9”W x 5.75”H x 1”D and weighing just under 2 pounds, eo™ is the most portable and convenient Tablet PC device for taking handwritten notes, accessing the internet, instant messaging, listening to music, viewing movies and playing games. eo™ enables you to connect, communicate and accomplish any task anywhere, any time, and be entertained and informed wherever life takes you.

eo™, named for the Latin word meaning to go, advance, or progress, was developed to meet the ever-changing needs of today’s highly mobile individuals by combining the power and compatibility of the full version of Microsoft® Windows® XP Tablet Edition with a lightweight “carry-everywhere” hardware design. As part of Microsoft’s Ultra Mobile PC initiative, eo™ features enhanced touch-screen capabilities with handwriting recognition and a revolutionary new, on-screen keyboard. For convenience and efficiency, eo™ also offers a wide range of other input options including the enhanced touch-screen via stylus, stereo microphone with voice recognition, and hardware controls that are easily adaptable for left or right handed users.

eo™ comes equipped with Microsoft® Windows® XP Tablet Edition as well as with the new Microsoft® Touch Pak, mobile-ready technologies that make it easy to access and use your software on the go. In addition, eo™ sports USB 2.0, wireless networking, and Bluetooth connectivity. In addition, a full range of custom accessories are being developed to enhance the eo™experience.

“We are excited to have partnered with TabletKiosk on the eo™ UMPC and are confident in the value it will provide to a wide range of audiences,” said Bill Mitchell, Vice President of the Mobile Platforms Division at Microsoft Corp. “With new touch screen functionality and the power of the Windows® XP experience, as well as the small, portable design, eo™ will be a great choice for many consumers who rely more and more on mobile technologies to accomplish their daily tasks.”

March 21, 2006
DyKnow Selected by Microsoft as One of 10 Independent Software Vendors to Participate in UMPC ISV Early Adopter Program
Program allows DyKnow to ready its software for Microsoft’s new ultra-mobile PC

AMD may provide CPUs for Ultra-Mobile PCs, say PC makers (subscription)
Demand for Microsoft’s Ultra-Mobile PCs (UMPCs) will really depend on whether technical issues such as excessive power use can be resolved, sources at Taiwan PC manufacturers indicated, who hinted that Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) may also become involved in this potential market.

Microsoft’s “Origami” project fulfills the UMPC concept as a new category of consumer devices and features the Windows XP Tablet edition OS with mobile-ready technologies. Under the project, Intel has reached an agreement with Microsoft to provide its microprocessors for companies that are eyeing the UMPC market, with Samsung Electronics, Asustek Computer and China’s Founder each scheduling volume shipments by the second quarter of 2006.

AMD’s current Turion 64 and Geode processor offerings, which have been adopted set-top box (STB) and portable media player (PMP) providers, would also be suitable solutions for UMPCs, sources at Taiwan PC manufacturers found.

AMD Taiwan declined to comment on the vendor’s possible entry in the UMPC market, but said the sector still needs time to develop. High costs, lack of market adoption and overlapping functions of notebooks are issues, which are also reasons why the Tablet PC has failed, according to AMD Taiwan.

March 20, 2006
ASUS Introduces Ultra-Mobile PC From Intel and Microsoft

As the leading provider of the most advanced mobile computing technology, ASUS continues its engineering excellence in developing the latest digital gadgets based on the platforms as well as software solutions from Intel Corporation and Microsoft, respectively. With built-in high-resolution webcam, 1 spindle and biometric security finger printer solution, the R2H is an Ultra-Mobile PC (UMPC) that is designed to fulfill the increasing need for an all-in-one device that enables professionals to stay connected, productive and secured on the go.

Uncompromised Security Protection

ASUS understands the need for a total protection technology to meet evolving security needs. To give the highly mobile business travelers a peace of mind, the R2H offers top security management that protects data integrity via both software and hardware features. The exclusive ASUS Security Protect Management (ASPM) guards access to the device and network with embedded multifactor authentication procedures that are managed with the Single Sign On (SSO) function which allows simple one-time log in without compromising security.

The built-in fingerprinter detects live tissue under the outer skin that makes the authentication procedure less susceptible to superficial defects such as cuts and dirt as well as harder to counterfeit.

User Friendly Interface

The R2H incorporates many features aimed to enhance overall computing satisfaction. With a high-resolution webcam and Bluetooth 2.0 EDR (Enhanced Data Rate), users are equipped with extensive interpersonal as well as inter-digital device connectivities. Built-in GPS and retractable antennae empower users with freedom to navigate without the need for extra tools or messy cables. The R2H runs Windows XP Tablet PC Edition, empowering users with touch screen navigation and hand writing recognition via the device’s built in stylus. Additionally the R2H incorporates Microsoft’s new Touch Pack software designed specifically for UMPC devices. With Touch Pack, R2H users can easily navigate their content in an intuitive new way, browsing groups of applications in a large icon interface, increasing the overall convenience and portability of the R2H.

“ASUS recognizes the need for PCs to be flexible enough to be utilized in more places than ever before, giving customers the ability to stay connected and entertained when and how they choose,” said Bill Mitchell, vice president of the Mobile Platforms Division at Microsoft Corp. “The ASUS R2H running Microsoft Windows XP Tablet Edition with the Microsoft Touch Pack enables a whole new range of mobile PC scenarios in a more secure, feature-rich, affordable package.”

Solid Reliability for the Road

Built with stringent ASUS quality standards, the R2H is the dependable mobile computing device that will sustain any bumpy journey with long-lasting power supply and stable operating system that will replace the need for a good number of digital tools that are single-function oriented or location restricted.

“The R2H Ultra Mobile PC (UMPC) platform, one of the first UMPCs to come to market, is a result of combining Intel's low power technology leadership with Asus' expertise in delivering innovative platform solutions," said Mr. Mooly Eden, vice president and general manager of Intel’s Mobile Platforms Group. "We are excited about working with Asus to enable the first generation of this exciting category - a PC companion that allow users to communicate, access information, be entertained and stay productive on the go.”

March 17, 2006
Ultra-Mobile PC Development Quick Start Guide
As a Windows developer, the knowledge you have acquired and applications you are building today will transfer directly to a UMPC. Because the UMPC runs Windows XP, all of the familiar Windows APIs are still available to you when you design applications for it. In addition, developers of Tablet PC and mobile PC applications have the expertise gained from using the API for pen and ink, designing for flexible display layouts, and network and power awareness that will enable them to optimize applications for this new class of computer.

March 15, 2006
100 gigabyte, 2.5-inch hard drives may be feasible in 2H 2006

A developer of parts and technologies for magnetic recording devices, as well as supplier of parts for hard drive manufacturers, announced this morning it will be demonstrating an implementation of a perpendicular hard disc drive recording scheme made feasible through a new type of thin-film recording head.  ALPS Technologies is promising it will demonstrate, at a private trade conference this May, a recording head capable of boosting areal densities to 170 GB/in², that will be ready for production in the second half of this year...

...In March 2005, Hitachi raised hopes with an announcement of a future implementation of its own patented perpendicular recording technology, with hopes of 230 GB/in2 areal densities. But drives that pack that much, that close together, have yet to see production; at present, Seagate leads the pack in terms of perpendicular implementations currently in production, with areal densities of 132 GB/in2. At the 2.5-inch form factor, such Seagate drives are capable of 80 GB, which is well above the 60 GB Microsoft suggests for its new UMPC framework.

Bill Gates demos a new mobile PC

Addressing a ballroom full of government officials from countries throughout North and South America, Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates whipped out something that looked like an oversized PlayStation Portable. For those of you who follow the software giant, the gadget used to go by the code name "Origami."

Speaking at his company's Government Leaders Forum, Gates called the system an Ultra-Mobile Personal Computer. It was a Samsung prototype, and basically meant to be a lighter, more fully functional computing device than what's out there--somewhere between a tablet PC and a PDA. It has a touch screen, but no keyboard, although Gates showed it with an interesting on-screen keypad that splits keys into two corners of the display.

Microsoft actually rolled out the so-called UMPC at last week's CeBIT

March 14, 2006
Mi-Co Announces full support of Ultra-Mobile PCs at Microsoft's CeBIT launch
Mi-Co, the mobile data capture software company, announced today that Mi-Forms software fully supports the new Ultra-Mobile Personal Computers (UMPCs) running Windows XP Tablet Edition. Mi-Co is part of Microsoft's Early Adopter Program and Mi-Forms software was part of Microsoft's Mobile PC and Tablet PC Partner announcements made at CeBIT in Germany today.

Mi-Forms Software enables the implementation of efficient and effective mobile data capture and forms automation systems. The software system includes a highly flexible e-forms design component, Mi-Forms Designer. In addition, Mi-Forms Software has capabilities for handwriting interpretation, touch-screen input, verification, data validation and communication. Mi-Forms is currently in use for mobile data capture at a number of customer sites including Sutter Health, United States Department of Agriculture, Boston Public Health Commission and University of Cincinnati Hospital. "At Mi-Co, our customers are excited about the small form factors of the UMPCs combined with the power and stability of Microsoft Windows XP Tablet Edition Operating System," stated Mi-Co Chief Technology Officer and co-founder Dr. Greg Clary. "Organizations using Mi-Forms for data capture want to maximize their mobility."

Microsoft unveiled details for the UMPCs, at CeBIT in Germany. The UMPCs represent a new category of mobile computing devices that features small, lightweight, carry-everywhere hardware designs coupled with the full functionality of a Microsoft Windows-based PC and a choice of input options, including enhanced touch-screen capabilities.

CeBIT, which is being held in Hannover from March 9 through March 15, is the world's largest trade fair showcasing digital IT and telecommunications solutions. The key target groups are users from industry, the wholesale/retail sector, skilled trades, banks, the services sector, government agencies and science. Over 6,200 exhibitors from around 70 countries and some 480,000 visitors from all over the world attended the last CeBIT in 2005. The theme for CeBIT 2006 is "Digital Solutions for Work & Life."

About Mi-Co
Mi-Co, the mobile data capture company, provides digital writing software that enables an efficient and effective process for capturing and communicating handwritten data. Mi-Co's enterprise Mi-Forms Software System enables flexible e-forms design for data capture using digital ink. In addition, Mi-Forms Software has proven capabilities for handwriting interpretation, touch-screen input, verification, data validation and communication of forms-based data for enterprise users. Mi-Forms supports Tablet PCs, UMPCs, Digital Pens, Pocket PCs and signature capture devices. The company is headquartered in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina and has a Washington customer service center. For more information on Mi-Co, visit www.mi-corporation.com.

March 13, 2006
FranklinCovey's PlanPlus for Windows XP 5.0 Software Now Supports Microsoft's New Ultra Mobile PC Platform

FranklinCovey (NYSE: FC) today announced that PlanPlus(TM) for Windows(R) XP 5.0 (http://www.franklincovey.com/planplus/xp/) software now includes support for Microsoft's new Ultra Mobile PC platform.

The Ultra Mobile PC platform, announced Thursday by Microsoft at CeBIT in Hannover, Germany, is the latest in Mobile PC technology, combining the power of the Windows XP Tablet edition and other innovative new technologies from Microsoft with small, lightweight, carry-everywhere hardware designs. The device provides a 7" touch screen and full Tablet PC functionality while running Windows XP. While the initial devices will run Windows XP Tablet PC Edition 2005, future models will run on Windows Vista.

FranklinCovey's PlanPlus for Windows XP 5.0 was created with the company's development partner Agilix Labs. The application is a full featured planning system designed to bring the experience of using the FranklinCovey Planning System to desktops, laptops, Tablet PCs and now the Ultra Mobile PC. The application allows the user to utilize FranklinCovey's planning methodology in one complete system. The software incorporates a calendar, contacts, and task management with enhanced features for daily and weekly planning, note-taking and organization within the layout and familiarity of a paper planning system.

A recently released free update of PlanPlus for Windows XP 5.0 has been designed to run on the new Ultra Mobile PC. To leverage the new computing platform, PlanPlus for Windows's user interface was redesigned to function well within the Ultra Mobile PC's screen size. It supports new touch screen capabilities and leverages the built-in digital ink functionality.

"Consumers today are increasingly mobile, and rely on technology to help them stay better connected and accomplish more tasks while on the go. With Franklin Covey's PlanPlus software, people will be able to take advantage of UMPCs to stay in touch and manage schedules with much more ease," says Mika Krammer, director of Windows mobility marketing at Microsoft Corp. "As Microsoft continues to create platforms to increase the mobility and productivity for consumers, we are excited that FranklinCovey continues to provide great planning applications to support our vision."

Jeff Anderson, FranklinCovey Vice President of Product Management, said, "FranklinCovey's PlanPlus software allows people to have all of the functionality of a paper-based planning system as well as the capability and convenience of a computer-based planning system. Microsoft's Ultra Mobile PC platform takes this increased functionality to a new level with enhanced mobility and connectivity. We are excited to continue to work with Microsoft to create applications that increase our customers' productivity wherever they are."

Upon release, support for the Ultra Mobile PC will be available as a free update to FranklinCovey's current software product: PlanPlus for Windows XP 5.0. Also available from FranklinCovey is PlanPlus for Microsoft Outlook 3.0, a planning application for Outlook-centric users.

Availability and Pricing
PlanPlus for Windows XP 5.0 is currently available in more than 100 FranklinCovey retail stores, by calling 800-819-1812, or by visiting http://www.franklincovey.com/planplus where users can download a full version or free 30-day trial of this software or PlanPlus for Outlook 3.0. Suggested retail price for PlanPlus for XP 5.0 is $99.95. Suggested retail price for PlanPlus for Microsoft Outlook 3.0 is $99.95. Site licensing and quantity discounts are available.

About FranklinCovey
FranklinCovey(R) (NYSE: FC) is a global leader in effectiveness training, productivity tools, and assessment services for organizations and individuals. FranklinCovey helps companies succeed by unleashing the power of their workforce to focus and execute on top business priorities. Clients include 90 percent of the Fortune 100, more than 75 percent of the Fortune 500, thousands of small and mid-sized businesses, as well as numerous government entities and educational institutions. Organizations and individuals access FranklinCovey products and services through corporate training, licensed client facilitators, one-on-one coaching, public workshops, catalogs, over 100 retail stores and http://www.franklincovey.com/. FranklinCovey has 1500 associates providing professional services and products in the United States and for 37 international offices serving more than 100 countries.

About Agilix Labs
Agilix Labs, Inc. is a worldwide leader in mobile learning solutions for education markets. Education institutions that implement Agilix solutions deliver an enhanced student-centered learning environment. Specifically, Agilix applications enable students to utilize mobile computing devices to capture, organize, annotate, search and share learning content, including assignments, online courses, research, Web pages, documents and personal notes. In addition, Agilix-powered mobility software solutions give students full access to all learning content when they are not network connected. Agilix applications are open and extensible by schools, software developers and integrators, run on any Windows XP computer and take full advantage of the Tablet PC. Agilix has over 165,000 users of its software applications in over 110 countries worldwide. Agilix is an Intel Capital-funded company and has strategic partnerships with Microsoft, Blackboard and FranklinCovey. A privately held company formed in 2001, Agilix is based in Orem, Utah. For more information about Agilix Labs, please visit http://www.agilix.com/.

Agilix, Agilix GoBinder, and Agilix Labs are trademarks of Agilix Labs, Inc.

March 10, 2006
Pharos Announces iGPS-500 Receiver
The new iGPS-500 adds modular GPS support to UMPC devices
Intel and Microsoft are standing proudly behind their new Ultra Mobile PC platform and Pharos has a new GPS receiver that takes advantage of the new devices.

The new Pharos iGPS-500 has full Windows compatibility and features a modular design that allows users to quickly adapt the unit to function via USB, SDIO (Secure Digital), CompactFlash or Bluetooth

Samsung’s Origami has rivals
Samsung stole all the limelight at the start of Cebit when Microsoft and Intel helped launch its ground-breaking Q1 ultra-mobile PC. But it is not the only model at the show to be based on Microsoft’s Origami specification. ...

Movie Fans Have Wireless Options
Wireless is becoming a more popular venue for everything movies - from reviews, showtimes and summaries to downloadable content. With this in mind, Digital Standard and Cinemark unveiled a new service called Cinemark, while Movielink announced a deal with Microsoft to deliver Hollywood content to recently announced Ultra-Mobile PC (UMPC) devices.

The agreement between Digital Standard and Cinemark involves the delivery of movie content via an interactive network service. The service offers Cinemark showtimes, movie summaries and reviews. It also gives users the chance to review movies themselves, according to the companies.

The service's support for IM functionality also will give users the option of inviting others to join them at a movie using the service's mascot, Front Row Joe.

Digital Standard is marketing the service, which runs under $10 a month.

Separately, Movielink announced its content will be available for download on Microsoft's UMPC devices, which operate on Windows XP and support full wireless connectivity and Internet browsing capabilities.

The agreement between Movielink and Microsoft will enable UMPC owners to download movie content on demand to their devices, once they become available for purchase in April. The rented downloaded content can be stored for up to 30 days on a device, according to Movielink.

"Since the Internet has proven to be ideally suited for portability and a significant amount of Movielink's downloads are already for portable use in notebooks, we believe the new UMPC platform will be a catalyst for portable video consumption," Movielink executive Sean Besser said in a prepared statement.

The Movielink downloads cost between $1.99 and $4.99 each.

Sprint Nextel also announced its tie in with the movies this week through a deal with Fandango. Fandango Mobile, which was developed in conjunction with Crisp Wireless, enables movie tickets to be purchased using the Web browser on a wireless phone or PDA.

Agilix Labs Announces Full Support for Ultra Mobile PC Platform
Agilix Labs, Inc., a worldwide leader in mobile learning solutions, today announced that GoBinder™ 2006, released on March 1st, provides full support for the new Ultra Mobile PC. GoBinder 2006 is targeted at the education market, which is also a very important market for the Ultra Mobile PC.

GoBinder 2006 is a software application designed to help students learn more effectively. It enables students to take all of their learning content with them – regardless of whether they have an internet connection or not. GoBinder 2006 enables students to take digital notes, digitally store, annotate and search learning content. The application also includes an electronic calendar, assignment manager and contact database to help students stay organized. GoBinder runs on Windows XP-based desktops, laptops and has been optimized for the Tablet PC.

The new release of GoBinder has been designed to run on the new Ultra Mobile PC. To leverage the new computing platform, GoBinder’s user interface was redesigned to function well within the Ultra Mobile PC’s screen size. It supports the new touch screen and leverages the built-in digital ink functionality.

“The Ultra Mobile PC is the perfect mobile computing device for education markets, especially with K-12 students,” said Curt Allen, Agilix president and chief executive officer. “Being one of the leading Tablet PC applications in education worldwide, GoBinder is a perfect solution for the Ultra Mobile PC. We anticipate many students using the two products together.”

“The release of Agilix GoBinder 2006 with support for the new Ultra Mobile PC offers students the ability to stay organized and connected to the information that’s most important to them while in the classroom or on the go,” said Mika Krammer, director of Windows mobility marketing at Microsoft Corp. “The flexibility and size of the Ultra Mobile PC is a strong fit for the education sector coupled with software solutions such as GoBinder 2006 that will help give students the competitive edge they need to succeed.”

The combination of the Ultra Mobile PC and GoBinder 2006 together will be targeted at K-12 and higher education markets. The Ultra Mobile PC provides students with a light-weight, fully functional mobile computing device that they can take anywhere. With GoBinder 2006, students can take digital notes in class using the touch screen, digital ink, the on screen keyboard or through an optional Bluetooth keyboard. GoBinder 2006’s digital printer enables students to print Windows application files, such as Microsoft® Word and PowerPoint, Adobe® Acrobat and web pages directly into GoBinder’s database. Student can organize their notes and electronically printed content by tabs and use the touch screen, digital ink or keyboard to annotate the content. A powerful search feature enables students to quickly locate any personal note or printed page stored in GoBinder. GoBinder 2006 supports an open architecture for third party developers to build “plug-ins” that extend and enhance the application. Plug-ins can leverage built-in features of GoBinder 2006, such as the GoBinder sync manager that makes it possible to synchronize its database bi-directionally with servers, web sites and local applications and devices. GoBinder 2006 comes with out-of-the-box utilities to synchronize GoBinder-stored appointments, tasks, contacts and notes with Microsoft Outlook and Palm devices. A software developer kit (SDK) is available at no charge at www.agilix.com for developers that want to build GoBinder 2006 plug-ins, including those that can run on the Ultra Mobile PC.

Private-label Agilix applications also support the new Ultra Mobile PC. Blackboard® Backpack, developed by Agilix for Blackboard, now supports the new device. Blackboard Backpack is used by students at higher education and distance learning institutions that use the Blackboard Academic Suite™. In addition, FranklinCovey® PlanPlus for Windows 5.0, which Agilix developed for FranklinCovey, also supports the new Ultra Mobile PC. With the new Ultra Mobile PC platform, FranklinCovey users get a digital planner the size of small paper planner.

All three applications are available now for download and 30-day trial. Agilix GoBinder 2006 is available at www.gobinder.com, Blackboard Backpack is available at backpack.blackboard.com and FranklinCovey PlanPlus for Windows is available at www.franklincovey.com

About Agilix
Agilix Labs, Inc. is a worldwide leader in mobile learning solutions. Education institutions that implement Agilix solutions deliver an enhanced student-centered learning environment. Specifically, Agilix applications enable students to utilize mobile computing devices to capture, organize, annotate, search and share learning content, including assignments, online courses, research, Web pages, documents and personal notes. In addition, Agilix-powered mobility software solutions give students full access to all learning content when they are not network connected. Agilix applications are open and extensible by schools, software developers and integrators, run on any Windows XP computer and take full advantage of the Tablet PC. Agilix has more than 165,000 users of its software applications in more than 110 countries worldwide. Agilix has strategic partnerships with Intel, Microsoft, Blackboard and FranklinCovey. A privately held company formed in 2001, Agilix is based in Orem, Utah. For more information about Agilix Labs, please visit www.agilix.com

New VIA C7®-M ULV Processor Family, the World's Lowest Power Mobile Processors, Enables Ultra Mobile Lifestyle Devices
VIA Technologies, Inc, a leading innovator and developer of silicon chip technologies and PC platform solutions, today announced the VIA C7-M ULV processor with unprecedented power efficiency that enables an exciting range of ultra compact, ultra portable devices to be showcased at CeBIT 2006.

As users look for a new breed of devices that fuses communication, content support, and computing all in one easy to carry package, VIA C7-M ULV processors are enabling radically small form factor designs that still retain the performance and flexibility of a full PC. Working together with leading industry partners the VIA C7-M ULV processor is creating exciting opportunities for entertainment, productivity, and communication products with a portability never before thought possible.

"The VIA C7-M ULV processor is the result of a concerted design effort to create the world's lowest power x86 processors that will enable a much needed class of mobile devices," commented Epan Wu, Deputy Director, CPU Product Marketing, VIA Technologies, Inc. "Featuring the best performance-per-watt operation in the industry, the VIA C7-M ULV processor delivers the performance needed to put a full PC into the palm of your hand."

"As consumers lead increasingly mobile lifestyles, Ultra Mobile PCs will provide an exciting new solution that makes it easier to access digital content — such as movies and music — and connect to almost anyone, and accomplish virtually any task while on the go," said Otto Berkes, general manager of the Mobile Platforms Division at Microsoft Corp. "The VIA C7-M ULV processor is enabling the production of smaller form factors that meet the needs of mobile consumers, while maintaining the functionality benefits of a full-sized Windows-based PC."

Paving the road for a new range of VIA C7-M ULV processor devices is PBJ, Inc., a Japan-based OEM, with their compact "SmartCaddie" UMPC device that together with Microsoft® Windows® XP with Microsoft Touch Pack software is aimed at enabling a revolutionary entertainment experience in the home.

"The VIA C7-M ULV processor has enabled us to create products with outstanding mobile characteristics that open the door to a new way to interact with a PC-based device," said Masatoshi Takahashi, CEO, PBJ, Inc. The CTO of PBJ, Inc., Kimitoshi Murakami added: "With the VIA C7-M ULV processor's amazingly low power consumption and cool operation, we were able to achieve battery life and a unique form factor design, while still maintaining the performance one would expect to do everyday PC tasks."

To see and learn more about the VIA C7-M ULV processor, please stop by the VIA booth at CeBIT (Hannover, Germany, March 9-15) Hall 23, D04, or visit the VIA website at:
www.via.com.tw/en/products/processors/c7-m_ulv/

For more information on the "SmartCaddie", please visit: www.smartcaddie.jp, a dedicated UMPC site to be made live on 13th March 2006.

About the VIA C7-M ULV Processor
Based on the VIA CoolStream™ architecture, and manufactured using IBM's 90nm SOI process, the VIA C7-M ULV processors are available at speeds from 1.0-1.5GHz with a maximum thermal design power (TDP) as low as 3.5 watts, and idle power as little as 0.1 watt ensuring unparalleled battery life. This is complemented by a low profile nanoBGA2 package measuring just 21mm x 21mm enabling designs with drastically reduced weight, size, and thickness. For more information on the VIA C7-M ULV processor, please visit the VIA website at:
www.via.com.tw/en/products/processors/c7-m_ulv/

The VIA C7-M ULV processor is in mass production now. Please contact your nearest sales office for more details, or email mkt@via.com.tw.

About PBJ, Inc.
PBJ, Inc. is an innovator of "Keyboard-less and Mouse-less" mobile computer products and solutions, offering the next generation of mobile devices from Japan to the world. www.pbj-inc.co.jp/english/

About VIA Technologies, Inc.
VIA Technologies, Inc. (TSE 2388) is the foremost fabless supplier of market-leading core logic chipsets, low power x86 processors, advanced connectivity, multimedia, networking and storage silicon, and complete platform solutions that are driving system innovation in the PC and embedded markets. Headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan, VIA's global network links the high tech centers of the US, Europe and Asia, and its customer base includes the world's top OEMs, motherboard vendors and system integrators. www.via.com.tw

Amazon.com Considering Movie, TV
Online retailer Amazon.com is considering the launch of a service that would allow site visitors to download movies and television shows, according to news reports.
Amazon currently is in talks with three Hollywood studios to develop a service that would allow consumers to download entertainment content, then burn it to DVD if desired, the New York Times has reported.

The article in the Times noted that the three studios in negotiation with Amazon are Paramount Pictures, Universal Studios, and Warner Brothers.

Brisk Market

Over the course of the past year, the market for video downloads has gained momentum, especially as Apple has been beefing up the offerings in its iTunes lineup. The company just launched a new subscription service that lets consumers purchase TV shows through a monthly subscription.

Another announcement in the download market came on the heels of the unveiling of Microsoft's new Ultra Mobile PC. Movielink, an online movie-rental service, has partnered with the software maker to create a way for users to download films from its archive.

AOL, meanwhile, also has been active in expanding its media offerings, creating a service through which users can download videos and other entertainment content. The company also is busy developing its own online TV properties.

The result of all this activity seems to be more interest from consumers and a greater willingness to download content rather than purchase it through local retail outlets. Many analysts have noted that, thanks to faster broadband connections, the promise of Internet TV and on-demand movies finally is becoming a reality.

Better Late

If Amazon does enter the film- and TV-download arena, it could be similar to the online retailer's move into the digital-music space. The company has taken a slow-and-steady approach in an effort to distance itself from iTunes.

But coming late to market could be an advantage for Amazon, noted Michael Goodman, a Yankee Group analyst. "Those coming into the market later have the benefit of having digital-rights-management issues largely sorted out," he said. "Also, record labels and studios are more involved and willing to sign partnership deals."

The market is large enough at this point to support several major players, he added, predicting that digitally delivered music alone will generate $1.8 billion by 2010.

Ultra-Mobile PC, the Perfect Partner for Our Smartphones?
Microsoft has formally unveiled the product code-named Origami, it is the Ultra-Mobile PC. With its 7" touch screen display and full fledged Windows XP Tablet Edition operating system, it brings mobility without sacrificing power, it brings flexibility without adding bulk, and the most important point, it brings all of the above at a price below $1000. The platform definitely has plenty of scope for improvements, like thickness, weight, battery life and cost, but it defines a very important category in the mobile arena. This category excites me.

Eleksen - UK-based 'smart fabric' leader to develop with Microsoft
The inventor and manufacturer of ElekTex smart fabric touchpads for consumer electronics, Eleksen, has announced it is working with Microsoft to deliver a range of ElekTex-based interfaces for new Ultra-Mobile PCs.

The new peripherals designs include Eleksen's Bluetooth fabric keyboard and its new USB keyboard. Additionally, the company has developed a carrying case with an integrated keyboard and a range of designs that go beyond traditional functions to provide rich multimedia controls operated from the case cover itself. The designs include a variety of sensor layouts and control electronics that can easily be integrated into an OEM's accessories products.

ElekTex gives OEMs a highly innovative interface technology which supports their needs to develop dynamic and feature-rich peripherals for this new mobile computing platform. The designs illustrate how textile interfaces can be integrated into some of the most common accessories and peripherals to extend the ease-of-use and enhance the mobility of these devices creating a new type of peripheral that complements the portability of Ultra-Mobile PCs. With ElekTex, interfaces can be developed into standalone accessories or can be built into protective cases and covers for Ultra-Mobile computing devices, says the company.

"We are pleased to be working alongside Microsoft to bring new portable interface designs to the market," said Robin Shephard, CEO, Eleksen. "The focus of our business is to use ElekTex to revolutionize the way that consumers interact with their electronics devices. The opportunity to offer solutions for peripherals design and development for the new Ultra-Mobile PC is an unprecedented opportunity for us to participate in the birth of an entirely new breed of computing and entertainment devices."

Otto Berkes, general manager of the Mobile Platforms Division, Microsoft Corp., said: "We're glad to have an innovative industry partner such as ElekTex on board to design new technologies for Ultra-Mobile PCs. ElekTex smart fabric interfaces offer capabilities that are well matched to complement the functionality and portability of new Ultra-Mobile PCs."

Working with ElekTex, OEMs can integrate a myriad of interface interactions ranging from simple keyboard button functions to navigation scroll controls and even multimedia gesture controls into fabric-based products. OEMs can further build on these features and exploit ElekTex's core capability to be programmed and reconfigured by PC applications which can change the interface's design and function on-the-fly. This is a significant benefit when considering the portability requirements for peripherals designed for the Ultra-Mobile market - a single interface which doubles as a keyboard and media player controller is both compact and lightweight, says the company.

March 9, 2006
Sling Media Announces Support for new Ultra-Mobile PC
Sling Media, Inc., a digital lifestyle products company, today announced a customized version of its SlingPlayer software, designed specifically for products based on the Ultra-Mobile PC. Slingbox owners will now have a new way of watching and controlling their home television from just about anywhere, using an Ultra-Mobile PC combined with a standard broadband Internet connection.

“The Ultra-Mobile PC represents an exciting new category of mobile devices and we are thrilled to be working with Microsoft to support this new product line,” said Blake Krikorian, co-founder and CEO of Sling Media, Inc. “Consumers are looking for differentiated, highly mobile product solutions as part of the digital lifestyle, and the combination of Slingbox and Ultra-Mobile PC delivers a portable and affordable solution to meet their entertainment needs.”

The customized SlingPlayer application leverages the touch screen and resolution of the Ultra-Mobile PC OS giving customers full control over their home television source, including the most popular cable boxes, satellite receivers, DVD players and digital video recorders (DVRs).

“We’re very pleased Sling Media has designed their SlingPlayer software to take advantage of this unique and highly mobile new PC category,” said Bill Mitchell, vice president of the Mobile Platforms Division at Microsoft Corp. “Ultra-Mobile PCs give consumers one more way to take their TV with them wherever they go, and Sling Media is helping more of our customers experience the freedom and flexibility this device offers.”

Sling Media’s first product, the Slingbox, is a breakthrough consumer electronics device that enables consumers to watch their living room TV programming from wherever they are by turning virtually any Internet-connected Windows-based laptop or desktop and any Windows Mobile-based PDA or smartphone into a personal TV. The Slingbox redirects, or “placeshifts,” a single live TV stream from a basic cable connection, cable box, satellite receiver or digital video recorder (DVR) to the viewer’s PC - located anywhere in the home or anywhere in the world, via the Internet.

About Sling Media
Sling Media, Inc. is a digital lifestyle products company creating a family of consumer electronics solutions that are a natural extension of today’s digital way of life. The first member of the Sling Media family is the award-winning Slingbox™, a device that allows consumers to access their living room television experience at any time, from any location, using a variety of different displays including laptops and desktop PCs, PDAs and smartphones. The Slingbox is available from leading retailers nationwide and through Sling Media’s own website. For more information on Sling Media or the Slingbox, visit www.slingmedia.com.

The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

Crowds Flock to CeBIT for Latest Gadgets
The opening day's buzz Thursday was clearly owned by Microsoft Corp., which unveiled its Project Origami to be an ultracompact personal computer, which claims to pack full PC function into a machine half the size of a piece of copier paper.

With three working models from Samsung, Founder and Asus, the four companies drew big crowds and even German Chancellor Angela Merkel to see it in action.

David Steel, Samsung Corp.'s vice president of digital media business said its version, dubbed the Q1, was a clear sign of convergence in the tech industry.

"Now the consumer has a single mobile computing device that combines the mobile functionality of many different devices," he said, adding that it would be a replacement for media players, gaming devices, palmtop PDAs and even laptops.

Otto Berkes, who heads Microsoft Corp.'s Ultra Mobile PC unit, told The Associated Press that it would be available within weeks, with more models to come.

"It's going to be popular," he said, adding that overseeing its development over the past 18 months was not the end. "We're just getting started."

Samsung follows Microsoft with own 'ultra-mobile' PC

Ultramobile PC? Why not Origami?
Here's an interesting question. With all the criticism Microsoft is always taking for their arcane, overly descriptive, hard to market names (instead of something simple like Tablet Enhancements for Outlook :-), why would they decide to call the new ultramobile pc's by that name instead of the code name which as we all know was “Origami”?

Origami Revealed - First Take Analysis
...First, Origami is different from all the tiny little Windows machines that have come before it. It's different from the Sony U series, it's different than the Libretto and it's different from an OQO. Those machines, while wildly popular with the Japanese mainstream and US geek markets have never taken off in a big way. One reason is that taking Windows and shrinking it down to size doesn't make it more usable, in fact less so. Add in the fact that making smaller machines means making computers that cost more and in the US, we pay a premium for large sizes not smaller less functional ones. Origami gets over these issues in two ways. First, by focusing on touch and creating a new way of interacting and entering information, Origami gets over the issue of tiny keyboards. Second, Origami introduces a new paradigm for UI. Much like there were PCs with TV tuners long before MCE, the power of MCE was really the 10 foot UI. The power of Origami is really in the 10" UI. Finally, by focusing on what could be delivered in today's technology sweet spot, Origami doesn't come in at the $2,000 price point, a major difference in terms of who can afford these machines and those prices will only go down.

ablet Factory Unveils Its First Program For Ultra-Mobile Computers
abletFoodCalc is a nutritional calculator and eDiary. A tool to keep track of your nutritional values. Carbohydrates, Cholesterol, Protein, Total Fat and Sodium can all be measured and monitored.

With a database of over 65,000 food items, many of them common restaurant foods, a user can easily calculate their total daily nutrition consumption habits.

A fully inkable selection method is incorporated to facilitate using the program while on the move using the new Touch Pack. Plus an inkable eDiary is included to personalize your daily food intake, moods, and a record keeping system for your goals and objectives.

Microsoft Unveils Details for Ultra-Mobile Personal Computers
Introduced at CeBIT, the new mobile PC form factor, formerly codenamed “Origami,” provides full Windows functionality with an enhanced touch screen, pen and keyboard input.
Microsoft today unveiled details for Ultra-Mobile Personal Computers (UMPCs), a new category of mobile computing devices that features small, lightweight, carry-everywhere hardware designs coupled with the full functionality of a Microsoft Windows-based PC and a choice of input options, including enhanced touch-screen capabilities. The debut of UMPCs here at CeBIT, the world’s largest trade fair showcasing digital IT and telecommunications solutions, follows Microsoft Chairman and Chief Software Architect Bill Gates’ call in 2005 for the computer industry to develop a new category of PCs that are less expensive, lighter and more functional. PressPass asked Bill Mitchell, corporate vice president of Microsoft's Windows Mobile Platforms Division, to discuss UMPCs and explain how these new devices are different from other mobile computers.

Otto Berkes - Origami's Architect gives first look at Ultramobile PCs
Otto Berkes is the architect (now general manager) behind the Ultra-Mobile PC team, code-named Origami. We have a conversation about Origami and the vision behind it. More on what was announced today is found here on Microsoft's Presspass site.

Tablet envy (From PC Magazine)
In case you missed it, there's a whole lot going on with tablet development these days - and it's not in the Mac camp.
The Wintel community is abuzz about Intel's Ultra Mobile PC (UMPC) platform and a new product from Microsoft called Origami due to launch on March 9. The very stealthy Origami Project Web site only gives clues about what's to come but the conventional wisdom is that it's a miniature tablet PC that will play music and have full Media Center functionality, including playback of full motion videos.

Origami will most likely feature WiFi, Bluetooth and don't be surprised if it also contains high-speed EVDO or HSDPA connectivity. Sitting down? Origami is also rumored to have a GPS receiver and be powerful enough to play full screen 3D games. TG Daily reported that Samsung, Asus and Founder will deliver the first Intel's Ultra Mobile PCs (UMPCs) with high-speed wireless and up to one week of standby time.
CNet's Ina Fried got a preview of several of Intel's Ultra Mobile PCs, including an example of the kind of hardware that will ship in the next few weeks as part of the Microsoft effort.

So where does this leave the Mac faithful? The Mac community (myself included) have been hoping for a "MacTablet" for quite a while now and the closest that we've come is Mac OS X for Intel running on Tablet PC and an iBook converted into a iTablet.
Is Apple just teasing us with all these "touch sensitive" patent filings of late? Are they doing Microsoft and Intel's R&D for them again? Maybe they're just reserving all the cool stuff for the iPod from now on.

A marriage of entertainer and laptop (International Herald Tribune)
In a bid to crack the crowded market for hand-held computers and music players, Microsoft, Intel and two electronics makers, Samsung of Korea and Asus of Taiwan, plan to unveil on Thursday an ultra-light tablet computer that melds a laptop and a media player into a thin, new device.

The Q1 made by Samsung, which will use Microsoft's Tablet edition operating system, is a product of Microsoft's so-called Origami project - an effort to shrink and redefine the laptop, while increasing sales of Microsoft software for hand-held devices.

"This is basically a small, but powerful laptop computer that is also a sophisticated entertainment device," said Patrick Pavel, a Samsung product manager for Germany who showed a prototype of the Q1 computer to the International Herald Tribune on Wednesday at the Cebit technology fair here.

The tablet PC by Samsung is a flat black rectangle that weighs 780 grams, or 1.7 pounds, and has the dimensions of a DVD box: about 23 centimeters, or 9 inches, by 13 centimeters by 2.5 centimeters thick. The viewing screen is 18 centimeters diagonally, more than double the size of most personal digital assistants or Internet-enabled smart phones.

The Samsung device has two wireless technologies built in: Wi-fi for Internet access and Bluetooth for connecting with devices like keyboards, printers or mobile phones. The battery lasts about three and a half hours, the company said.

While Microsoft, the world's largest software maker, which is based in Redmond, Washington, dominates the desktop and laptop markets with its Windows operating systems, it has been slow to make inroads into the huge market for mobile devices, especially phones.

Microsoft trails the Symbian group, led by the mobile phone makers Nokia, Ericsson, Motorola and Siemens, for software on smart phones. Symbian's operating system is on 85 percent of all Internet-enabled Smart phones, with rival software systems made by Microsoft, Palm and Linux making up the rest, according to Gartner, a research firm.

Despite the calculated secrecy surrounding Microsoft's Origami project - the company has dribbled out bits of cryptic information on an obscure Web site for a month, suggesting the introduction of a new mobile device - analysts and experts were skeptical that the new tablet computer would make inroads against popular gadgets like RIM's BlackBerry hand-held e-mail device or Apple's iPod music player.

"We have known for a while that Microsoft was making a very serious bid to increase its presence on mobile devices," said Clemens Joos, the chief executive of BenQ Mobile, the Taiwanese mobile phone maker that last year bought the mobile handset business of the German company Siemens. "Because of Microsoft's size, this will clearly have an effect on the industry. But it's also just another device in a very crowded market."

Representatives for Microsoft, Samsung and Asus discussed the devices with a reporter but declined to release further details on the tablet computers before a news conference to be held Thursday at Cebit. An executive with one company involved in project, who declined to be identified before the news conference, said that the tablet personal computers would sell for €500 to €1,000, or $600 to $1,200, each.

"That's roughly the price of a decent laptop computer and not much more than the cost of a good MP3 player," said the executive. "I think the tablet PC is initially going to be favored by tech experts, but there is a chance this could become a mass market product."

Like a personal digital assistant, Samsung's Q1 can be operated with a metal stylus by writing and clicking on the screen. The MSN software appears identical to Microsoft's standard Windows desktop and laptop operating system. The device comes with a 40-gigabyte hard drive, permitting the storing and replaying of films and video.

The tablet can also be operated with a wireless keyboard.

Andy Brown, a London-based analyst with the research firm IDC in London, said that so-called "converged devices," like the Q1, faced an uphill battle winning over consumers, who are more likely to favor traditional laptops with keyboards and tiny MP3 players than morphed machines that do both.

"I would estimate that these type of devices are less than 2 percent of the overall laptop market at the moment," Brown said. "And the growth prospects are not really strong. The main problem for most is that they fall in between what consumers are looking for. I don't think they will replace laptops or MP3 players."

Samsung and Asus plan to start selling the machines, which will be powered by Intel Celeron and Pentium Mobile processors, this summer.


FIRST GLIMPSE OF ORIGAMI
Origami, possibly the most talked about launch at CeBIT, is getting its first outing on the Samsung stand (Hall 1,Stand B41).The technology, which appears to be an overlay on the Windows XP operating system, is aimed at finally kick-starting the Ultra Mobile PC
revolution.

Samsung, which is officially unveiling its Origami device at a press conference this morning, gave CeBIT News a sneak peek before the show opened. The Samsung Q1 is a smart black device the size of a large paperback book with a large touch screen, a 40 GB hard disc plus Wi-Fi and Bluetooth built in. The most intriguing revelation of our preview was the innovative Origami Touch Pack interface.  This consists of a keyboard laid out in a circular fashion around the users' two thumbs.A conventional Bluetooth keyboard is also available.

Running Windows XP on Intel Pentium or Celeron Mobile Ultra LowVoltage chips, the device carries support for GPS and digital TV. Both
require external dongles for operation in Europe (in Korea DMB TV comes built in as standard). The Q1 also has an external DVD player but movies can be ripped to the device ’s hard disc. The Q1, which Samsung says can do everything a PC can, will be available later this year (price and availability to be revealed at the press conference).

Microsoft will unveil full details of its Origami offering later today possibly including a change of name.

March 8, 2006
Microsoft and Intel roll drums for 'ultramobile' PC (Press Release - Bloomberg News, The Associated Press, The New York Times)
Microsoft and Intel are expected to announce in Germany on Thursday that they and several industry partners will make small, light versions of a tablet personal computer, people close to the two companies said.

The machines, which have been the subject of considerable speculation, will be tailored more for consumer entertainment than the larger tablet machines running Microsoft's Windows that were introduced in 2002. The larger tablets - typically with 12-inch, or 30-centimeter, screens - sell for about $1,500 and are used mostly by doctors, lawyers, architects and other professionals in office settings. A tablet PC has a touch-sensitive screen that allows input with a stylus.

At Cebit, the world's largest technology trade show that officially opens in Hannover on Thursday, the companies plan to unveil new models - in a category called ultramobile personal computers - that will have smaller screens of seven or eight inches and will sell for $1,000 or less, depending on options.

The paperback-size machines will have the handwriting recognition software of the standard Windows tablet personal computers, and include wireless technology for browsing the Internet. But some models of the new tablets may also have multimedia capabilities for playing music, movies and games.

Those describing the features would not speak for attribution because the products have not been announced, nor would they name the three or four manufacturers that they said were involved, but Toshiba executives have said they were not involved in the first generation of the machines.

Intel will supply the chip technology for the ultramobile PCs, and they will run a version of Windows Tablet PC software. The models to be introduced this year are an initial step to what Microsoft and Intel hope will be a popular hybrid category of computer, a consultant to Microsoft said.

They will weigh about two pounds, or just under a kilogram, and have a battery life of three hours or so between charges, the Microsoft consultant said. A new generation of low-power chips, extending battery life to six hours, will come next year. Later models, he added, will come with screens of four inches or so.

Without disclosing specifics, Intel and Microsoft had previously acknowledged working on ultramobile machines intended to have the power of a personal computer. The machines were to be designed to do a single task very well, and do a few other things as well - more like a consumer electronics product.

One model, for example, might be geared toward gamers, but also allow e- mail and simple Web surfing. Another might be marketed to business travelers who want to be able to do e-mail messaging and read online publications without the weight of a traditional laptop.

"We don't want to create a Swiss Army knife, because that's not what users want," Brad Graff, a director of marketing in Intel's mobile platforms group, said, speaking generally about the company's approach.

There has been considerable speculation in the last week about what Microsoft may be introducing. A Web site set up by Microsoft, www.origamiproject.com, stirred interest with vague assertions that a coming mobile technology "will change your life." Then, bloggers found and posted a video advertisement for Microsoft Origami mobile technology.

Intel has its own Web site, www.umpc.com, suggesting that the ultramobile PCs will be able to handle movies, music, games, television and the Internet.

The Cebit show, which has been an annual event in northern Germany for decades and which is expected to draw nearly 500,000 people over seven days, is largely a business-to-business exhibit but it does sometimes showcase new gadgets for consumers.

Microsoft has not said how or where it will reveal its so-called Origami project, but has said it will be unveiled March 9. At Cebit, the company will also be showing off its Office 12, the latest version of its stalwart suite of office-related productivity software.

March 7, 2006
Intel Discloses Technologies to Make the Internet More Personal and Mobile

Inteligami device debuts today
Now that Microsoft finally released details behind its secretive Origami mini-tablet project, News.com's Ina Fried reports that Intel is poised to take the wraps off of its contribution to the project (Inteligami is just my mashup of the two words) today at the Intel Developer Forum.

Intel shows Origami-like device
Intel on Tuesday plans to show off the minitablet device at the center of Microsoft's Origami Project.

In a preview of Tuesday afternoon's demonstration, Intel Marketing Director Brad Graff showed CNET News.com several of the Ultra Mobile PC devices, including an example of the kind of hardware that will ship in the next few weeks as part of the Microsoft effort.

As earlier reported, the first devices have a 7-inch touch screen, standard x86 processors, and can run full versions of desktop operating systems including the Windows XP variant being used for Origami.

In later generations, probably next year or later, the devices could have the pocket size, all-day battery life, and $500 price that Microsoft and Intel are aiming for, Graff said in an interview.

 

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