Sony gets official with VAIO P: world's lightest 8-inch netbook
By Darren Murph 
posted Jan 7th 2009 7:29PM
posted Jan 7th 2009 7:29PM
SONY UNVEils WORLD's Lightest 8-inch notebook
Full-Featured VAIO PC Fuses Style, Mobility and Connectivity for Anytime, Anywhere Computing
LAS VEGAS (CES Booth #14200), Jan. 7, 2009 – Sony today took the wraps off the world's lightest 8-inch notebook- the new VAIO® P Series Lifestyle PC.
About the size of a business envelope and roughly as thin as a cell phone, the VAIO Lifestyle PC weighs just 1.4 pounds and is small enough to slip into a jacket pocket or handbag while integrating full-PC features.
The model incorporates a high-resolution, 1600 x 768, LED backlit 8-inch ultra-wide display (diagonal), making it easy to view everything from entire spreadsheets to full web pages- no side-to-side scrolling necessary. It also incorporates Sony's XBRITE-ECO™ LCD technology, producing images in brilliant detail for razor-sharp viewing on-the-go.
Stylish enough to take anywhere, the unit is available in an array of eye-catching colors, including garnet red, emerald green, onyx black, crystal white and classic black. Matching carrying cases and Bluetooth® color-coordinated mice are available to complete the look.
"The VAIO P Series Lifestyle PC is your portal to the world, delivering entertainment and computing in a head-turning device that's small enough to put in your pocket," said Mike Abary, senior vice president of VAIO product marketing at Sony Electronics. "Designed for the fashionista in all of us, it's the ideal companion."
Engineered to provide the feel of a larger notebook, the VAIO Lifestyle PC provides a convenient typing experience by extending the keyboard to the perimeters of the chassis maximizing the typing area. The spacing between keys has also been engineered to help reduce typing mistakes making it perfect for long fingernails.
The notebook incorporates built-in wireless WAN 3G Mobile Broadband, 802.11n wi-fi and Bluetooth technologies. Users can toggle among various wireless options for the most efficient connection – Wi-Fi for working at a coffee shop; Bluetooth for peripherals; and Mobile Broadband service on the Verizon Wireless nationwide network when traveling outside the reach of hotspots (subscription required).
The unit features up to four hours of battery life with the included standard capacity battery and eight hours with the large capacity battery (sold separate).
It also incorporates real-time GPS functionality, making it easy to find restaurants, hotels or special sites of interest. Destinations can be found by simply typing in an address or keyword and then following the turn-by-turn directions. The Lifestyle PC even includes estimated drive times to let you know how far you are from a destination. No Internet connection is required in the United States or Canada.
The unit also has an instant-mode option that launches directly into Sony's Xross Media Bar™ interface, so you can rapidly boot up and access music, video, photos and the Web. A built-in webcam lets you video chat with family, friends and colleagues. A third-party service is required.
The PC comes with the Windows Vista® operating system, supporting office applications and all the software programs routinely found in full-size notebooks. A windows arrangement utility has been added to easily organize all open documents or websites with one touch, positioning them neatly along side each other on a single screen.
The VAIO P Series Lifestyle PC will retail for about $900. It will be available for pre-orders tomorrow online at www.sony.com/pr/pseries. It will also be sold at Sony Style® stores starting later this month and at other major retailers around the country beginning in February.
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
holy $$$$$$$$$$$$$hit its awesome
nice but $$$$
and that res on only an 8" .. talk about pixel dense .. we're all gonna go blind
Ya too expensive. Where's the EEE T91 pricing!?
Expense is relative...
and no; i dont work at Sony
Where am I supposed to rest my wrists while typing!! I would call that bad design.
Same place you always rest your hand while... "typing"
Goodbye Macbook $$$$$$$$$ Air
3G, GPS, BT, 802.11n and 1600 x 768 LED screen. Certainly more feature packed then most netbooks, while nice, I would have liked to see the same laptop with just 802.11b/g and the 1600 x 768 LED screen screen for $700.
I suppose if you're signed up for a 3G network the 3G is nice and if you have Microsoft Streets and Map, the GPS can be useful, but to me the main draw is the full-sized keyboard and the nice long screen.
Not as much $$$$$$$$ as the MacBook air at DOUBLE THE $$$$$ !!!!
mister Lacoste alligator there you should be the last one talking about too expensive. lol
Of course it's a Sony .. (has to be double the price of others)
Good to see high res screen though
Good connectivity options as well including GPS !
Its double the price for a reason. Learn the difference between expensive and overpriced.
Clearly not a netbook.....$900 bucks? Thats like 2 Samsung NC10's
Well, it has a GPS module so, subtract about $100ish. Still, overpriced for what it is.
I know! Honestly, what the fuck? $900? For a netbook? Wasn't one of the selling points of netbooks is that they were cheap? Sony's doing it wrong. I mean its cool and all, but $900?
You always need to take into consideration weight, size, design (no, not only cosmetics, but also ergonomics and usability), software and build quality before you start complaining about Sony taxes.
Most people understand why you pay more for an Audi or Mercedes, even though you could probably get more kilowatts in a shitty Peugeut for less money.
That said, this might still be the world's thinnest, most expensive Peugeot.
I agree as i am typing this response on my NC10 heh!
Damn you people, there were small notebooks before netbooks and they were called ultra portables.
Plus Sony never said it was a netbook and I don't know why Engadget is calling it that.
Agreed, it says right in their press release: "notebook". This thing will be the replacement to my iPod Touch.
Once again, Sony shoots themselves in the foot when its time for them to gain some attention....
No kidding... I was really hoping this would be revolutionary, but with these specs its not even evolutionary compared to similar offerings from other manufacturers (which cost half as much). I fail to see how an XBRITE-ECO (the worst LCD Sony offers) and 1.33ghz ATOM justify paying the Sony tax for this netbook.
Does it say which Atom it is?
I am totally with you two. Other than the nice design, this brings nothing exciting at all. sigh...
u gotta admit... its nice n thin thanks to sony getting rid of that archaic VGA port! for people still needing vga, theres always an adapter :)
am i the only one who thinks $900 is worth it for a 1.4 lbs system? or would people rather justify paying $1800 for an mba that weights at 3.3 lbs???
The netbook market is severely saturated and Sony took the right path at positioning themselves high by creating something premium and different. As much as I love it the price does take several glasses to swallow, around $500 would have been a bit more acceptable. It wouldn't surprise me if Apple jump on this one and replicate this beauty with a multi touch twist. But over all this is a superb effort by Sony, too bad the battery life will probably call for an expensive upgrade for the 6 cell battery.
Another question is; What on earth is this computer for? It doesn't look like anything I can type on long letter on, merely looks useful for commenting on friends' status on facebook and chit chatting on MSN. But I feel like an iPod Touch does that also, but in a much smaller form factor. If Apple comes out with a super sized iTouch with a 7-9 inch display then it will be game over for this P-series.
Darkstar: It is worth every penny. 1.4lbs and a Trackpoint makes me regret getting the X200s and for me to regret getting a Thinkpad especially because of a Sony, pigs must be flying somewhere.
yo Homeboy,
i waited 5 years for someone to come out with a netbook (a cheap laptop that does basic tasks). im sure it will only take 2 years for some company to come out with a nice 7inch touchscreen ipod touch :-D
@dark star
it's pretty clear that the macbook air and the sony p are completely different, why bother saying one's better than the other? they're both premium for their own market.
They really offer very compelling reasons to be worth 900 bucks.
But with nVIDIA jumping on board netbooks and the relatively weak (based on rumors) processor compared to others, now is a time to wait.
Yeah, I'd probably look at Rev B, although you have to wonder why they went with the 1.3 GHz version of the Atom. This thing looks worth the $$$$. People don't seem to mind paying for ho-hum specs, but once something unique comes out with a full sized keyboard and really high resolution screen, you complain that it's too expensive. Do you know what's too expensive? Any 1.6 GHz Atom netbook with 1 GB of RAM and 160 GB harddisk for over $400, because the Acer AspireOne costs less than that, and yet has the same specs as some $550 units.
This thing is a $550 unit with big upgrades. I think the "nipple" is a huge upgrade over the tiny trackpads and weird button positions you find on other netbooks, while the screen makes this machine perfect for internet and writing documents. I can have 2 documents side by side. Fantastic.
However, the HP Mini-note 2140 with the upcoming 13xx by 768 screen may be a better overall package.
I'm digging the green one, but would probably go with the HP.
Engadget compared this to the Asus R50a, which will be $1,878 ?
http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/15/asus-r50a-finally-arrives-jacks-your-wallet-in-the-process/
That should be compared to the Vaio UX instead.
I want one.
Love that pic...it's friggin tiny.
http://www.sonystyle.com/wcsstore/SonyStyleStorefrontAssetStore/img/vaioimage/static_images/lightbox_images/p_overview2.jpg
I'll take one in Onyx Black plus the new 17 inch Macbook pro with a matte screen and 8GB RAM.
Thank.
i'll take your money.
Thanks
Interesting how the press release is silent about the cpu.
Does the 512KB L2 Cache rule out the dual core atom?
I found that strange also. Could it be a Via? Nah...
wtf comment system that was to homeboy
The product specification page says "Intel processor," 1.33GHz, 533MHz FSB, 512kB L2 cache.
There's room for a 9" screen in that case. For a premium price, I'd expect a smaller bezel...
What's the deal with all these bezels anyways? The size limitation on computers is obviously the interface, make it perfect!
From what everyone is saying, it sounds like it might be worth waiting for Windows 7 to see how each of the netooks runs. It might not need as much muscle.
It's a Sony, Sony like no other ........... netbook. People buying this do have a substantial connectivity and pixel density to brag about(i do hope they dont go blind after long hours with their expensive netbook)
It's an ultra portable.
It was okay until the price.
STFU!,. U already have a glide
what a SAMSUNG GLIDE fanboi.,STFU!
Macbook Wheel will totally pwn this! and for only twice the price! ;)
This seems more like a high-tech accessory to go with an expensive hand bag than the next step in the evolution of laptops...
$900 and up for a netbook? No thanks. Doesnt help that it runs VIsta since I'd downgrade to XP anyway..
Wow, I'm sold. I need a computer for college next year, and I cant think of any computer I would rather buy right now. The price is a little high for a netbook, but for the hardware Sony is offering, I am more than willing to pay $900 to $1000. Awesome.
This computer might work for a good second laptop, but your not going to like using such a small screen as your main computer.
I have a Eee Pc that's even a 10" and doing a word doc or internet is not for long term use.
I has a strange attraction. A tiny & superlight, but still usable full PC...with an killer screen, internal 3G and GPS and good battery life. It's not cheap that's for sure, but I don't think it's quite *that* overpriced as everybody thinks.
At $900, it's better to just get a laptop from another manufacturer which will pack a little bit more of a punch for that price. I mean really, $900 for a netbook?!
Hmmmmm HP mininote you guys?
A grand for netbook. Gee Sony, wanna stick that 512GB SSD in it while you at it?
gimme, gimme, gimme!!!
I don't give flying eff about the processor! I'm gonna use it for SURFING! you know NETbook! the whole concept is meant to be used for the interNET. not freakin' HD-playback or runnig heavy apps. if browsing was possible 15 years ago, this lil' puppy should handle it just fine! and watching movies in a more friendly format as well! all I need, and it fits in my pocket! this is what netbooks are supposed to be! sure a little pricey compared to the competition but it's not the price that makes it a netbook, it's the application!
people wanting to be able to decode 1080p aren't after a NETbook! they want an ultraportable, that's the difference between the two, one is for surfing, the other is for lots of stuff.
well said sister
It's about the same size as my old 48K Sinclair ZX Spectrum, although that didn't have a fancy-pants screen and "connectivity", etc.
$900 too much? Just pretend it's an Apple.
I would've liked a convertible tablet version. Not sure whether I want something like this or the touch EEE.
World's lightest 8-inch netbook.
World's heaviest 8-inch netbook.
World's only 8-inch netbook.
http://umpcreport.blat.co.za/2008/10/24/sahara-has-launched-a-new-8-inch-netbook-in-south-africa/
That's where'd you be wrong ;-P
No, you see, with the current exchange rates, South African inches are only about 1/2 of an American inch. It's, erm, metrics.
Seriously... fuck Sony. They are garbage; pure, simple, garbage. It's a testament to the waning intelligence of technophiles that they are still in business. $900 and up for a netbook? Fuck you, Sony; I refuse to even consider your overpriced copy of other affordable netbooks produced by sane companies. You greedy bastards. You produce items with the same, or slightly elevated, specifications as other companies, over-design crappy interfaces, and slap the "Vaio" or "Sony" tag on them as if it means something. At least the overpriced crap that Apple produces has actual innovation in design, user interfaces, and function. But you, Sony, do not even attempt to hide behind the smokescreen of "style" in your effort to rape consumers and steal their money. Sony, in a few words, GO FUCK YOURSELF.
Is the Engadget comment section filled with sexually frustrated fifteen year olds?
No, just people who are sick of being ripped off by overpriced electronics, with a little too much time on their hands.
Btw, fuck you, too.
The only reason I'd want this over my Eee is for the nub.
Why can't anybody put a Trackpoint in a Netbook?
I love Trackpoints.... :(
222 PPI. That'd be awesome with today's resolution-based GUIs. Nice :-)
Windows 7 will run great on this and it scales to whatever ppi you want! This thing + windows 7 > anything.
Where's the 100$ DVD-RW addon?
900 dollaridoos?!
The cost is to high i could have a really nice notebook for 900, a refurb macbook
http://www.sizeasy.com/page/size_comparison/21109-Apple-MacBook-vs-Sony-Vaio-P
Dimensions taken from http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&productId=8198552921665749282
and
http://www.apple.com/macbook/specs.html
It looks nice.
I dont like the trackpoint idea though, but its sleek and sexy.
it would need to have a mouse to sell me on it.
And with all the windows 7 talk latley you would think it would have a touchscreen?
and the 900 dollars is a hell of a lot of money.
for 450ish i got a eee pc 1000ha with a better battery than that.
Don't like the Trackpoint? Ha Ha. How do you Touchpad people use those things in bed? Trackpoint sealed the deal for me. I'm getting one.
http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&productId=8198552921665749282
$exy.
gonna buy me a replacement case and put something else in it.
Do want....will get. Im a sucker for style, and that right there is some serious style. Of course this wont be my primary laptop, it would be something I take with me on business trips or vacations when lugging a full laptop is out of the question.
Well, we all know how much Sony likes to take our money for their highly overpriced equipment, and then not adjust the price for years to come.......... PS3 anyone? Only reason to get that is for the bluray, but the way the market is going that is going to lose to the Video On Demand market from Netflix, Amazon, iTunes, even Hulu and all major networks! They can sit on it and Ill keep my eyes open for one for a 1/3rd the price, like a true netbook. While playing better games on my 3rd Xbox 360 :-)
haha for 800 bucks you get this
Intel® Processor (1.33GHz, 512kB L2 Cache)
Genuine Windows Vista® Home Basic
Model Features: 8" display with XBRITE-ECO™ LCD technology, 2GB RAM, 60GB HDD, 1.5 lbs., GPS, integrated mobile broadband, glossy Onyx Black, Bluetooth® technology
This is a very specialized gadget that will appeal to the well-heeled metrosexual and/or businessman/gadgeteer. For what it has, it is a decent buy; the question is whether you actually NEED or WANT what it has.
1) GPS unit - that is about $100+ for something you may NOT NEED.
2) WWAN broadband with verizon - typically $200-$300. Remember, this is a built-in mobile broadband modem with antenna WITHOUT a contract, and this would be the typical price you'd have to pay for it.
3) The outrageous pixel density of that LED screen (1600X768) is probably adding another $75 or more to the cost of this netbook, versus a LED screen with more regular resolution for its size.
As it is, there is approximately $500 worth of extras that you may not need or want on this netbook. It'd be a much more reasonable $400-$500 without the extras mentioned. The question you need to ask yourself is, do you actually need these pricey built-in extras that you cannot opt out of? If you do, then it is a decent deal; only you know the answer to that question...
Paulie
Why would you put vista on a netbook?????
100$ Windows tax and then you'd have to install xp or linux to be able to run anything....
Not a net book
It's running an Atom processor, it's pretty much a netbook, even if Sony doesn't call it that.
Next on will be a 1500 heads layoff, for the heck of it...
why no front view in any of these shots? what are they hiding?
Just like the PS3 then... too late, too expensive, with tons features that you DONT need. At least they're consistent.
For $99 more ($999), I could get a refurbished MacBook Air.
http://news.cnet.com/8301-13845_3-10134568-58.html?tag=TOCmoreStories.0
If you want something 4 times the size.
Well they do like to market themselves as a premium brand. That's ok but I'm not sure the netbook market is looking for this just yet.
I'm guessing this is Sony just dipping their toe in the water before they bring out something with a little more punch. Touchscreen next time?
To those who want to know, the processor that is in this PC is the Intel Atom Z520. This is proven by then 1.33GHz speed as well as the inclusion of Intel GMA 500 graphics. Most netbooks currently using the N270 Atom use the GMA 950 graphics processor. The GMA 500 was developed for the Z5xx series of netbook processor chipsets.
all these comments remind me of when apple air came out,sony vaio unfortunately is not priced at an average netbook range,$400 . this aviously is not geared for minimum wage earners.,just like air wasnt.so if u dont like move on,go for that $99 memorex mp3,ort chinavision $40 car adapter mp3.its definitely an eye catcher n will generate buzz,.,asus 10' netbook $388,hp mini 10' $460, acer one 9' $390.,sony 8" $900,which will u pick.,?
Grow up you pathetic little POS
This is seriously attractive. I hope to see some in the train soon here in japan...
Dont forget most japaneses do 1-2 hours of train everyday... this is a better form factor than a normal netbook.
Exactly. I can't easily whip out my MacBook air on the train some times, but this would be easy to open in tight traffic. If they could install OSX on it, then it would really be awesome.
I like the size of this laptop. My current laptop is about 4.3 pounds and I don't want my next one to be more than 3 pounds, so I will take a look at this laptop from Sony when I am ready to buy. I think the price is good and it would work for me and the employees of my company that are mobile.