CES 2013: Lenovo Introduces Family Style Computing Device
Michael Harper for redOrbit.com – Your Universe Online
Lenovo has just introduced a brand new kind of computer and they’re claiming stake on a brand new name for it as well. The IdeaCentre Horizon Table will be the first “interpersonal computer” according to Lenovo, who introduced the giant touch screen panel last night at the start of CES in Las Vegas. Together with Ubisoft, Lenovo plans to bring this 27-inch interpersonal computer into the homes of many, making computing and digital game play a family matter.
“It’s definitely a new category; the world’s first home table personal computer,” explained Dee Kumar, the director of global marketing for Lenovo in an interview with AFP.
“This can be a full-power 27-inch PC, but at the same time we want families using this device.”
This relatively large table computer performs some of the basic tasks relegated to personal computers these days, such as social networking, web surfing and email. This device also invites groups of people to use it together when playing games, such as the Air Hockey title developed by Ubisoft. It’s this kind of communal effect Lenovo believes sets the IdeaCentre Horizon Table apart from the rest of touchscreen computing devices.
“We want to take social to the next level,” said Kumar in her interview.
“Smartphones and tablets provide one-to-one interaction, but it is great for a family to come back home and use this device to consume content.”
Lenovo and Ubisoft are also showing off more gaming titles during this week’s CES at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Microsoft’s Windows 8 is running beneath the 27-inch screen, which gives the device the ability to recognize as many as ten fingers at one time. Though the latest version of Windows OS has drawn more than its fair share of criticism for being unwieldy and arriving with the steepest of learning curves, Kumar said Microsoft’s latest attempt will help drive further innovations in the future.
“Windows 8 definitely opened the doors to social with 10-finger touch,” Kumar said. “You are seeing touch interfaces on bigger devices, and this is kind of the next extension.”
Lenovo’s new table is compatible with BlueStacks, meaning it will also be able to run a host of Android apps as well.
Meant to be a multi-purpose device, the IdeaCentre Horizon Table rests on a hinged stand, allowing it to be used either as a table or as a typical desktop computer screen. According to Lenovo, the whole kit weighs about 18 pounds and can even be paired with wheeled stands and joysticks for game play. These items are, of course, sold separately.
Though CES attendees are getting first glimpse at this large familial computing device this week, Lenovo says it won’t be ready for shipment until the middle of 2013.
redOrbit will continue our coverage of CES throughout the week. Stay tuned for pictures and videos of the IdeaCentre Horizon Tablet and more!
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2013-01-07 20:18:09
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