Follow us on TwitterLenovo recently announced their first netbook offerings named IdeaPad S9 and S10. Both are similar, sharing the same case and many components. Both will be configured with Linux or Windows.
The big difference: the S9 will have an 8.9″ display and the S10 will have 10.2″ display.
The other big difference is that the S9 will not be sold in the USA. Also, for those of us in the USA, the S10 will only be available with Windows.
Lenovo issued completely different press releases in the UK and the USA.
There are a number of videos available for your enjoyment. The one below is my favorite. Not only for the sexy hands, but mostly because it gives you a close up view of the keyboard and both sides. I also like the unobtrusive soundtrack.
Here is a page from CNET’s Taiwan site with lots of pictures from Lenovo.
Specifications
The specs on the IdeaPad S10:
- 10.2″ screen with 1024 x 600 resolution and LED backlit
- Keyboard is 85% of normal size.
- 1.6GHz Atom processor
- Intel 945GSE chipset
- 512Mb of RAM
- 80GB HDD (optional 160GB)
- 802.11 b/g
- 1.3 megapixel camera
- 4-in-1 card reader
- 2 stereo speakers
- 2 lbs 7 oz. (more depending on options)
- Express Card slot to enable broadband
- 3 or 6 cell battery
- Colors: black, red, white
- Windows XP Only
The IdeaPad S10 should start shipping in the USA in October.
Prices start at $399.
Summary
Lenovo looks to be taking this very seriously. Lenovo is late to the table, but they will offer a competitive product with lots of configuration option. Except no Linux in USA. Except no S9 models in USA.
With Dell rumored to be introducing their new netbook in August, this market segment will soon be filled with products choices for customers.
Interestingly, of the major laptop manufactureres, only Toshiba has chosen not to participate.
