Sony updates VAIO G notebook to Centrino 2
updated 04:20 pm EST, Tue January 27, 2009
Sony updates Vaio G3
After leaving its VAIO G notebook line-up alone for nearly two years, Sony has finally announced it will update it with four new models with the third-generation G3 range. All four share a 12.1-inch, 1024x768 resolution LCD, with the entry-level model sporting a Centrino 2-era, ultra-low voltage 1.2GHz Core 2 Duo CPU; it also comes with 2GB of RAM, 120GB hard drive and Wi-Fi. A mid-range model receives a 1.4GHz Core 2 Duo chip and a 64GB solid state drive.
The remaining two permutations include both have the 1.4GHz chip paired with 1GB of virtual memory, though differ as one has a 120GB hard drive and DVD drive, while the other trades the optical drive for a larger, 160GB hard drive. All G3s are preloaded with Windows Vista, with the option to downgrade to Windows XP Professional.
Sony has upgraded all to withstand more punishment, as their chassis are reinforced with carbon fiber while the display's surface has a coating that can withstand scratches from a 5H pencil. There are now three USB ports instead of just one, and other connections include a VGA output, SDHC/MMC/Memory Stick PRO/Duo slot and a fingerprint sensor. Battery life is rated at 12 hours for the hard drive models or 13 for the solid-state drive, and there is a lightweight power cell offered that will allow for 5.5 hours of operation.
The notebooks will be released on February 7th and 9th, with prices starting at $1,960 and topping out at $2,240. [via Impress]
