Lenovo adds ThinkPad X131e Chromebook to education line
updated 12:22 pm EST, Thu January 17, 2013
Similar hardware to Windows-based ThinkPad counterpart
Lenovo has updated its ThinkPad line with a notebook running Chrome OS aimed at students and educational staff. The ThinkPad X131e Chromebook is effectively the same as the Windows-based version, except that the option for an AMD E-series processor is no longer available, instead replaced by an Intel-based counterpart.
The 11.6-inch notebook has been ruggedized and constructed to be as hardwearing as possible, according to Engadget. A rubber bumper surrounds the top cover, corners have been strengthened, and the hinges are said to last more than 50,000 open and close cycles. The display will have a native resolution of 1366x768, while four USB ports, a low-light webcam, HDMI, and VGA ports surround the device. Wi-Fi connectivity is also offered on the four-pound notebook, along with a battery life claimed to last an entire school day and various other school-specific customization options.
Launching on February 26th, the ThinkPad X131e Chromebook will be made available only to organizations purchasing in volume, such as schools. A consumer version could still be released in the future.
