Ultra Mobile PCs Presented at CeBit

Microsoft has officially announced the new Ultra Mobile PC category at CeBit. Along with the Samsung Q1 ultra mobile pc, other UMPC models by Asus and Founder were also announced. As it turns out, Microsoft's "Origami" is a working concept model design by which other manufacturers could base their own Ultra Mobile PC designs. But we knew that right?

Go everywhere

The Ultra-Mobile PC is portable, lightweight, and configured to connect on the go. It’s the device that you’ll always want with you.

Do everything

Featuring full Microsoft Windows XP functionality and the ability to touch, write, or type, the Ultra-Mobile PC is a powerful companion that lets you communicate, accomplish your tasks, and stay entertained and informed wherever life takes you.

So begins a new era of mobile computing, but the Ultra Mobile PCs 2 1/2 - 3 hour battery life is truly disappointing. If Microsoft wants us to "go everywhere, and do everything" with the Ultra Mobile PCs, we'll need some extended battery solutions. Even though, I can't wait to try that virtual thumb keyboard with the pre-installed Microsoft Touch Pack software, they might have something there.

Ultra Mobile PC Hardware Specifications

- Windows XP Tablet PC Edition 2005 OS
- Approximately 7” diagonal display (or smaller)
- Minimum 800 x 480 resolution
- Approximately 2 pounds
- Integrated touch panel
- WiFi- and Bluetooth-enabled
- 30-60 GB hard drive

UMPC pricing is expected to range from US$599 to $999.

more UMPC details on Microsoft's Ultra-Mobile Personal Computers website.

Q&A: Microsoft Unveils Details for Ultra-Mobile Personal Computers

Microsoft's Week 3 Origami flash video.

Microsoft Origami architect and Ultra-Mobile PC team general manager Otto Berkes talks to Channel 9's Robert Scoble about Origami and the vision behind it. Watch the video!