Acer, ASUS may have 1080p ultrabook LCDs to head off iPad 3
updated 11:05 am EST, Wed November 23, 2011
Acer and ASUS tap AUO, Chi Mei for dense LCDs
Acer and ASUS are reportedly developing very high density displays to try to head off the iPad 3's 2048x1536 display, a new rumor claimed Wednesday. AU Optronics and Chi Mei Innolux were said by Digitimes' industry contacts to be working on 1920x1280 (incorrectly marked as 1928) LCDs that would go into new ultrabooks as soon as January or February. The Retina Display effect would be "forcing" upgrades at PC builders.
Using 1080p displays isn't uncommon in notebooks, including in mid-sized models, but so far hasn't been seen in ultrabooks or other ultraportables. Apple and ASUS so far have the densest displays, at 1440x900 and 1600x900 on their 13-inch models.
Acer and ASUS have both given the view that ultrabooks will save them from the iPad effect by delivering much of the light weight and instant response of a tablet in a conventional form factor. At between 400,000 to 500,000 of their initial ultrabooks shipping combined, however, the two aren't expected to either significantly impact the iPad or to outsell the MacBook Air in the current stage.
Apple may not stand still on the Mac along with the tablet. Mac OS X Lion currently has latent high DPI display support that could see screens with the same fidelity as the iPad 3's rumored display.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Jul 2008
YOU'VE GOT THEM WORRIED...
Apple. Next thing you know they might try "raising" their prices! About the only tactic they have not tried in combatting the "over priced" Apple line.