Lenovo ThinkPad X301

Lenovo on Monday will launch an update to its ThinkPad X300 series that shows the PC maker's second response to the MacBook Air. The X301 expands on the earlier model by using Centrino 2-era ultra-low voltage Core 2 Duo processors to ramp up speed while also extending the battery life over the earlier system, which used a lower-clocked version of the same custom processor used in Apple's system. Clock speeds are unmentioned but in prior leaks will involve both 1.6GHz and 1.83GHz processors; regardless of speed, the system should perform about 20 percent faster than the original X300, Lenovo claims.

The new version of the thin 13.3-inch ultraportable also adds the option of a 128GB solid-state drive and adds DisplayPort without removing VGA, supplying the system with not only a digital output for 2560x1600 displays but the option of two external monitors without special add-ons. Lenovo further offers a faster, HSPA-based 3G option for AT&T data subscribers as well as the promise of WiMAX as an option once Sprint's Xohm network launches in September. GPS for mapping and Ultra Wideband for high-speed, short-range peripherals are also available.

With the introduction comes a reduced price; Lenovo expects to price the X301 at $2,599, or $200 less than the original model when it launched in February. The vendor starts taking orders on August 26th.

By Electronista Staff