Tech Shout!

Microsoft honcho, Bill Gates, has launched OQO’s next-gen ultra-mobile PC, model 02, in his keynote address at CES 2007 at Las Vegas. The OQO model 02 is ultra-lightweight at 450g, measuring 142×84x25mm, it is small enough to fit comfortably in a pocket. It has the credit of being the world’s smallest Windows Vista capable computer.

Bill Mitchell, corporate vice president, mobile platforms division, Microsoft said, “OQO’s innovative model 02 computer brings the capabilities of Windows Vista to a truly mobile form factor. The OQO model 02 enables a revolutionary new mobile computing paradigm for the professional or enterprise user,” said

“The OQO model 02 is a no-compromise PC instantiated as a work of art that fits in your pocket, feels good in your hands and gives you a physical connection to your own data plus the whole broadband internet,” said Jory Bell, founder, OQO, speaking about the latest launch.

The OQO model 02, which features VIA’s recently released C7M ultramobile Processor is up to four times faster and has a display more than six times brighter than its groundbreaking predecessor, the model 01+. Redesigned from the ground up, the model 02 incorporates a new ergonomic backlit keyboard and capacitive TouchScrollers for easy input and navigation. The model 02 includes complete wireless connectivity – such as EV-DO Wireless WAN, WiFi and Bluetooth – making certain that the user has high speed and access to the Internet, e-mail and networked applications.

With prices starting at $1,499, the Model 02 lineup can be customized to fit the needs of each user or organization. The model 02 is available with a 1.5GHz processor, 60GB hard disk drive, 1GB of RAM and integrated mobile broadband data capability. Every model 02 is configured with OQO’s software that provides one-touch access to many of the computer’s settings and functions including the ability to change screen resolution on-the-fly with zoom keys.

The OQO model 02 is due to ship by the end of the first quarter.

The model 02 also includes the exciting Origami Experience, the most recent interface for ultra-mobile PC (UMPC) that peaks entertainment and communications on the smallest class of personal computers running Windows Vista.