Averatec AHI UMPC Device With Keyboard

If you have been keeping your eye out for a UMPC that doesn’t seem like it will suck, keep an eye on the Averatec AHI.  While other manufacturers are designing UMPCs that look pretty much the same, Averatec is mixing it up a bit.  Most other UMPCs have 7-inch touch screens, while the AHI has a smaller 5-inch touch screen.  With a 7-inch screen, the complaint arises that the device is hard pressed to be considered “ultra-mobile.” Averatec’s approach solves that. In fact, it seems to solve a host of complaints that many have had with other UMPC devices.  For example, located directly under the screen is a slide out keyboard.  The device also boasts a SXGA 1280 X 1024 display.  Connectivity will not be a problem, as it has integrated Bluetooth, Ethernet, 802.11g WiFi, and a dial-up modem. Even better, it should also have 3G functionality, and a GPS receiver as well. A 2 megapixel camera, 2 USB ports, and an SD/MMC slot add to the ultra-portable goodness.

For those that want to use their new UMPC for fun, the AHI boasts a dock that gives it DVD functionality.  All these innovative features come at a cost - the Averatec UMPC will not be running the special version of Windows designed for UMPCs; it will be running the Tablet PC version of Windows instead.  You can expect to see the AHI by Christmas. Pricing is not yet known, but it’s expected to be available in multiple configurations in the $600-1100 range.
 

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