Microsoft finally unveils super-small PCs

Microsoft has finally unveiled the Origami Project – announcing the launch of a new type of portable mini-PC that will play video and music, offer games, the web and email.

Called a UMPC’s (Ultra-Mobile PCs), Microsoft, Intel and hardware manufactures have been developing the units under the codename the Origami Project for the past few years.

In the past weeks the hype on the web about the launch of a new device has been huge, with bloggers speculating about its features and leaked videos appearing on YouTube.com.

The dual touch screen and keyboard devices, due out in Spring, will run a version of Windows XP, and Microsoft say it hopes “UMPCs become as indispensable and ubiquitous as mobile phones are today”.

To be classed as a UMPC, the gadget will have to weigh less than two pounds, have a seven inch screen, a battery life of at least two and a half hours and a 30+ GB hard drive.

Some will include features such as GPS, webcams, fingerprint readers or a TV tuner.

Microsoft said price will be determined by the manufacturer, but expects units to cost between $599 and $999 (£344 - £578)

http://www.microsoft.com/umpc
http://www.umpc.com