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Toshiba officially quits the laptop business
Toshiba has sold its remaining stake in its laptop business to Sharp, effectively quitting the PC industry.
Sharp's latest Dynabook is one of the lightest 13-inch laptops yet
Sharp's Dynabook brand (formerly Toshiba's) might just have a laptop for road warriors who want the lightest possible machine that doesn't make major compromises. It just unveiled the Portégé X30L-G, a portable billed as the lightest 13.3-inch laptop with one of Intel's 10th-generation Core processors inside. It weighs just 1.9 pounds, but still manages to include a U-series processor, a 470-nit IGZO display, WiFi 6 and a healthy selection of ports (one USB-C, two USB-A, HDMI and Ethernet). It even boasts military-grade dust and drop resistance and an estimated 14.5-hours of peak battery life -- we wouldn't count on lasting that long in practice, but it should last through a full workday.
Toshiba's new Kira Ultrabook promises 22 hours of use on a single charge
We praised Toshiba's last flagship Ultrabook for its brilliant screen and speedy boot-up time, but the company's newest Kirabook has a notable new feature -- an estimated 22 hours of battery life. Intel's new Haswell chips may have shifted our expectations of what we expect laptops can deliver battery-wise, but almost running a whole day remains an impressive feat. That's Toshiba's claim for its new Dynabook KIRA V654, which sidesteps touch compatibility on its 13-inch 1,366 x 768 resolution screen to add to the battery savings and weighs in at just 1.12kg. Alongside an additional high-resolution model (2,560 x 1,440), if you simply must have swipeable screens on your Windows 8 machine, there's also the similarly-sized Dynabook Kira V834, although that model will only manage a paltry 14 hours of work and / or play. (We kid.) The two machines will launch in Japan on 20th November, with the touch-capable V834 starting at 153,000 yen ($1,530), while the endurance-specialized V634 will start at 144,000 yen (roughly $1,446). As is often the way with these made-in-Japan PCs, there's no word on whether the rest of the world will get to see either model yet, but we'll let you know if we hear anything from Toshiba.
Alan Kay has some choice criticisms about the iPad
To call Alan Kay brilliant is an understatement. Kay, in case you're unfamiliar with his work, is a Turing Award winner who played an integral role in the development of object-oriented programming. A highly respected computer scientist, Kay worked for many years at Xerox's famed Palo Alto Research Center and also did a stint as an Apple fellow in the company's Advanced Technology Group during the '80s and '90s. The full extent of Kay's visionary prowess can be found in a 1972 research paper he wrote titled, "A Personal Computer for Children of All Ages." The research paper describes a device Kay dubbed the Dynabook, a notebook sized device with functionality remarkably similar to what the iPad would eventually go on to become. To that end, Kay's vision for the Dynabook can in many ways be viewed as the not-so-ancient blueprint for modern day tablet computing. The device envisioned by Kay back in 1972 featured a display capable of displaying text and graphics, along with the ability to play several hours of audio files. Kay also envisioned, back in 1972 mind you, that the Dynabook would be able to connect to high bandwidth networks, download remote content and even offer a virtual keyboard if need be. Suppose the display panel covers the full extent of the notebook surface. Any keyboard arrangement one might wish can then be displayed anywhere on the surface. Steve Jobs made that same exact point when he unveiled the original iPhone back in 2007. [Pictured below: an illustration from Kay's research paper depicting kids playing with Dynabooks] Kay was probably one of the few people whose opinion Jobs deeply valued, and some of Jobs' favorite quotes are attributable to Kay. "People who are really serious about software should make their own hardware" and "The best way to predict the future is to invent it" are two that come to mind. All that said, one would imagine that Kay would be particularly thrilled with Apple's iPad, a device that eerily embodies many of his predictions almost 40 years later. In a recent interview with Time Magazine's David Greelish, Kay levied a few harsh criticisms on Apple's wildly popular tablet. According to Kay, Apple's iPad not only fails to live up to the promise outlined in his ridiculously ahead-of-his-time research paper, but betrays it to a certain extent. For all media, the original intent was "symmetric authoring and consuming." Isn't it crystal-clear that this last and most important service is quite lacking in today's computing for the general public? Apple with the iPad and iPhone goes even further and does not allow children to download an Etoy made by another child somewhere in the world. This could not be farther from the original intentions of the entire ARPA-IPTO/PARC community in the '60s and '70s. Apple's reasons for this are mostly bogus, and to the extent that security is an issue, what is insecure are the OSes supplied by the vendors (and the insecurities are the result of their own bad practices -- they are not necessary). I'm not quite sure where Kay is coming from here. For instance, there are no shortage of stories of individuals who are sometimes as young as 12 (if not younger) who learn how to program and subsequently release an app on iTunes, instantly making their work accessible to millions of iOS users across the world. There are also apps like Minecraft, Woodcraft and Eden which allow sharing of created objects and worlds. Kay also took issue with the iPad's user interface, calling it "very poor in a myriad of ways." With Scott Forstall now out of the Apple mix, perhaps that leaves the door open for Kay to return to Apple and really spice things up. All kidding aside, Kay's entire interview with Time is worth a thorough read. Kay is incredibly sharp and insightful, and while he has a few bones to pick with the iPad, he shares a number of interesting perspectives on computing, education and business leadership. He also talks about what it was like to work at Xerox, Apple, HP and Disney.
Toshiba debuts Windows 7-based Dynabook WT301/D tablet for Japan
Toshiba's tablet attention may be focused primarily on its Android-based tablets these days, but the company's not leaving Windows behind just yet -- at least in Japan. That steely-looking slate pictured above is its new Dynabook WT301/D, which packs a 10.1-inch display, an unspecified Atom processor, a 64GB SSD, and Windows 7 Professional edition for an OS. No indication of a North American release for this one, but those in Japan will apparently be able to pick it up sometime next month.
Toshiba's Portege Z830 is an ultraslim, ultrasexy Ultrabook
Ready for your first helping of Ultrabook? Because it's here. Behold: Toshiba's Portege Z830. Checking in at 2.5 pounds and 0.63 inches thick, the 13.3-inch magnesium-clad beaut that lies before you is 20 percent lighter and 40 percent thinner than its (relatively) svelte sibling, the R380. But don't be fooled by that diminutive profile, as Toshiba still managed to cram some serious silicon (an optional Core i7 CPU), up to 6GB of RAM and an eight-cell 47Wh battery inside. On top of those guts resides a keyboard that's both backlit and spill-resistant (!), a 1366 x 768 display and a 1.3 megapixel webcam in the lid. Also onboard are three USB ports -- one 3.0 and two 2.0, one of which does sleep and charge -- an Ethernet jack, HDMI and VGA output and an SD card slot. There's also the obligatory 802.11b/g/n WiFi radio, along with optional Intel Wireless Display. We're still waiting for a full rundown of the various configurations and specs, but Toshiba did tell us that the Z830 line will start at under $1,000 when it goes on sale come November. Until then, hop past the break for some brief impressions of a prototype unit. %Gallery-132225% %Gallery-132253%
Toshiba Qosmio T851 can do simultaneous 2D and glasses-free 3D, arriving in Japan this July
Glasses-free 3D on your laptop is now just a couple of brief months away. Toshiba has set loose details of its new 15.6-inch Qosmio T851, and this fella promises to not only dispense with the unstylish glasses, but to also give you 2D and 3D imagery at the same time. You'll be able to view content in differing dimensions in neighboring windows (as illustrated above), thanks to the familiar parallax technique -- sending a different image to each eye -- which is here aided by the integrated webcam to track the position of your face in order to deliver the most fittingly angled visuals. There's also integrated 2D to 3D conversion, powered by a dedicated SpursEngine image processor, with Face3D technology automatically recognizing faces and applies a "human depth template" to their features. Aside from Toshi's obsession with faces, there's a GeForce GT540M churning out the graphics, a Core i5-2410M processing processes, up to 8GB of RAM, and a BDXL-reading Blu-ray player. Shipping begins in July, just as soon as the kitchen sink has been fully attached.
Toshiba's 10.1-inch Regza AT300 Honeycomb tablet hits Japan in June
Toshiba's first Honeycomb tablet, which we first laid hands upon back in January, has finally been priced with an honest to goodness ship date. Unfortunately, this 10.1-incher with 1,280 x 800 pixel display, USB, HDMI, and 5 megapixel rear-facing cam is Japan-only for now, where the Tegra-2 powered Android 3.0 tablet has just made its official debut as the Regza AT300 with a ¥60,000 price (about $723). Look for it to hit the hard streets of Nippon in late June. Now if we could just get a name, date, and price for locations a bit closer to home we'd be all set.
Toshiba Dynabook Qosmio T750 laptop has a lid that changes color on both sides
It's been a long time since we used a laptop that had a monochromatic display -- it was a giant white block of a thing that is not missed -- but flip around just about every laptop we use today and you find a backside that stubbornly refuses to change color no matter the light that hits it. Is that a problem? Not really, we think it's quite fine since we're not often staring at that bit, but for Toshiba such tedium simply won't do, so it's introducing the Dynabook Qosmio T750 with a color-shifting lid. Turn it in the light and it shifts and shimmers, just like the chameleon paint tuners have been using on custom rides for decades. Here, though, we're told it's done with multiple layers of film, no paint at all. Oh, the inside? A 2.66GHz Intel Core i5-480M, 4GB of DDR 3 memory, and a 15.6-inch, 1366 x 768 display that's LED backlit -- which is also capable of displaying multiple colors, in case you're interested.
Lenovo's Skylight and U1 Hybrid being revived with fresh Qualcomm silicon?
What's this? A new sliver of hope in a dark, lost world? Before you throw your hands up and shut your eyes, you should know that all of this is coming from Digitimes, so taking it all in with an unhealthy dose of salt is highly suggested. According to them, Lenovo is actually planning to eventually ship its Skylight and IdeaPad U1 Hybrid (yeah, the two machines that were kinda-sorta shelved a month ago), but with far different specifications. For starters, they'll rely on Qualcomm's recently announced dual-core processor line, and rather than using the now-nonexistent Skylight OS, they'll both rely on Google's Android. If all goes well, the official launch will occur before the dawn of 2011, but there's no solid word on when they'll actually ship. In related news, there's also word that Toshiba will be readying a smartbook in its long-standing Dynabook line, with NVIDIA's Tegra 250 under the hood, a 10.1-inch panel and Android running the show. Now, who's up for seeing if any of this actually comes to fruition?
Toshiba's AC100 8-hour Android smartbook plays 1080p video on a 1GHz Tegra 250 processor (update: video!)
We wouldn't fault you for thinking that's a first generation ASUS Eee PC what with that iconic fingertip pose and all. But Toshiba's AC100 is a very modern take on the ol' Atom-based netbook idea. For starters, this super slim smartbook runs Android 2.1 on a 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra 250 SoC (built around a dual-core ARM Cortex-A9 MPCore processor) capable of about 8 hours of browsing and video playback (and 7 days standby) before needing a recharge. It's also packing a 32GB SSD, 512MB of DDR2 memory, 802.11n WiFi, optional 3G data, Bluetooth 2.1+EDR, a 1.3 megapixel webcam, and an HDMI jack beneath that 10.1-inch 1,024 x 600 pixel display. As for software, the AC100 ships with Documents to Go for editing MS Office docs, an email client with POP3, IMAP, and Exchange support, an Opera Mobile browser, and a Tosh media player which should support HD 1080p video playback if it's taking full advantage of that Tegra 2 silicon. Too bad Toshiba is being quiet about the pricing and availability 'cause this little guy has us intrigued. Update: Netbooked got its hands on with the Japanese Dynabook AZ twin and received confirmation that it'll ship in Japan in August for between ¥40,000 and ¥50,000 (about $438 to $548). Video after the break.%Gallery-95912%
Toshiba Dynabook TX/98MBL is first to play Blu-ray 3D content
Ah industry firsts, a chance to grab the spotlight before the world grabs hold of your coattails. Toshiba's Dynabook TX/98MBL claims to be the industry's first laptop to play back 3D content in Blu-ray format when it ships at the end of July in Japan. The 15.6-inch laptop with LED backlit 120Hz panel (60Hz to each eye when viewed through active shutter glasses) pushing 1,366 x 768 pixels utilizes WinDVD BD to playback the Blu-ray 3D format with some help from NVIDIA's 3D Vision software and GeForce GTS 350M hardware with 1GB of dedicate video RAM. Inside you'll find a Core i7-740QM processor, 640GB of hard disk, up to 4GB of memory, a Blu-ray disc drive of course, and harman/kardon stereo speakers with Dolby Advanced Audio to help make the most out of 3D gaming. Price is not listed but it's expected to list for about ¥250,000 (about $2,700). What, you do want 3D on your 15-inch laptops don't you? Update: Toshiba wants you to know that it'll be called the Toshiba Satellite A665 in Europe, presumably because "TX/98MBL" can only be pronounced by the Japanese.
Toshiba updates Qosmio and Dynabook laptops with Core i3, Core i5 CPUs
Not really a shocker as far as world events are concerned, but Toshiba's announced some new Qosimo and Dynabook series laptops for Japan. First, the 18.4-inch Qosmio G models (the G65 and 97L) will boast brand new 2.4GHz Core i5 processors, GeForce GT 330M graphics, 4GB of RAM, a 500GB HDD, and Blu-ray. Up next, the 16.-inch Dynabook TX will have the 2.13GHz Core i3 CPU, 4GB of RAM, a 500GB hard drive, and Blu-ray. Both the Qosimo and Dynabook models will sport Windows 7 Home Premium, and are expected for release in August. Pricing is unavailable at this time, as are release details outside of Japan, but we'll keep our eyes peeled.
Toshiba rolls out Dynabook MX/43, MX/33 thin-and-lights for Japan
Toshiba certainly isn't hurting for laptops big or small these days, but it looks like it's nonetheless decided to mix things up a bit further with two new CULV models: the 13.3-inch MX/43 and 11.6-inch MX/33. Of course, both come with a few trade-offs to performance for that added portability, but you'll get a slightly better balance with the MX/43, which packs a Core 2 Duo SU9400 processor, 2GB of RAM (up to 8GB), a 250GB hard drive, a promised 10.5 hours of battery life, and Windows 7 Home Premium for an OS. The MX/33, on the other hand, dials things back with a 1.3GHz Celeron 743 processor and a smaller battery, among other similar specs, although you can get it in you choice of three different colors. No word on a release over here, but folks in Japan will be able to pick this one up on (you guessed it) October 22nd.[Via Engadget Japanese]
Toshiba coating NB200 netbook in silky pink and blue
The Dynabook UX / NB200 netbook has only been out for a few months now, but already Toshiba's looking to score a few more buyers with two new hues. Originally launched in white, brown and black, Tosh has decided to queue up a pair of fresher, brighter colors for those looking for something a bit different. Now, you can expect the lappie to start making the rounds in "silky pink" and "blue," though we get the feeling these will hit the UK first. Head on down to the read link for a hands-on gallery, but don't expect any exciting new hardware -- it's still the same ole 1.6GHz Atom, 1GB of RAM and 160GB hard drive that we're so painfully used to seeing.
Toshiba NB205 netbook reviewed, loved
We already knew the cats at Laptop were into the Toshiba NB205 / Dynabook UX netbook's aesthetic, and now they're back with a full review saying it "breaks the mold." Yep, even though it's packing the same 1.6GHz Atom internals as every other XP netbook out there, it's apparently a step above, with a tight design, kickin' keyboard, and 8.5 hours of battery life for $399. Of course, that's in contrast to some other reviews of the Dynabook UX we've seen, which called the keyboard "cramped," but it certainly seems like the NB205 is at least worth a look for potential netbook shoppers not put off by the upcoming CULV explosion.
Toshiba's Dynabook SS RX2 with world's first 512GB SSD
With 512GB SSDs already announced it was just a matter of time until OEMs slapped that slim slab of solid state silicon into a laptop. Now our patience has paid off with Toshiba's 12.1-inch Dynabook SS RX2/WAJ; a world's first laptop to feature Toshiba's own 512GB SSD. Oh sure, ASUS announced its S121 with 512GB SSD back at CES but Toshiba's laptop is the first to actually ship. Remember, the Core 2 Duo SU9400-based SS RX2 is already the mother of ultra-portable badassery with a 12-hour battery stuffed into a slim 19.5 ~ 25.5mm sled weighing just 1.1-kg (less than 2.5-pounds). But with the SSD alone priced at about $1,500, well, you can guess how much the SS RX2 will cost configured (hint: over $4,000).Update: As noted by tipster Grovester, the US version of this RX2 -- the Portege R600-ST4203 -- with the same 512GB SSD lists for just $2,999. Not bad.Update 2: Toshiba contacted to let us know that the $2,999 listing (see Google cache) was apparently a mistake -- the real price is $3,499. Not so good.
Toshiba Dynabook UX reviewed, deemed a cut above other netbooks
Toshiba's 10.1-inch netbook -- the Dynabook UX -- hasn't been on our radar terribly long, but already it's beginning to make the review rounds. Portable Monkey's just gotten their hands on one and while they are fans of the design, think the over all build quality is a bit better than many netbooks, and also found the battery life to be pretty good (they got about 3.5 hours per charge), there are also a few drawbacks. The keyboard is cramped, the built-in scrolling is none too responsive, and the volume of the speakers is extremely quiet. The NB200 is set to be released in the coming months in the UK, and it's expected to run about $600 when it makes its way to the US.
Toshiba's 10-inch Dynabook UX netbook gets hands-on treatment
Toshiba's Dynabook UX (or NB200, if you prefer) just popped on our radar last week, and already we're seeing netbook craving individuals in Japan get their paws on 'em. The 10-inch machine ain't too different than the other alternatives out there -- save for the N280 processor, which will never show its true potential without a GN40 chipset riding shotgun. At any rate, early impressions of the machine have been rather positive, with onlookers digging the design and the chiclet-style keyboard. Personally, we're a bit bored from afar, but hit the read link to have a look and make a judgment of your own.
Toshiba updates Qosmio and Dynabook SS RX2 laptops
It's sort of funny that Toshiba's packing the Cell-based SpursEngine HD video co-processor into most of the Qosmio line when it still refuses to offer Blu-ray drives, but we guess some wounds just don't heal. In any event, Japanese customers can now pick from a whole host of updated Qosmios with clock-bumped Core 2 Duos and GeForce 9600M GT graphics, including the ¥320,000 ($3,241) 18.4-inch Qosmio G50 and the ¥210,000 ($2,119) 15.4-inch Qosmio FX, as well as a new 1.4GHz 12.1-inch Dynabook SS RX2 with 128GB SSD for ¥280,000 ($2,840). Great, but hey Tosh -- what we really want to see is the SpursEngine chip stuffed inside one of your new netbooks, you know? Think about it. Check the SS RX2 after the break.Read - QosmiosRead - Dynabook SS RX2
