Lenovo has announced new mobile computing devices ahead of CES. These include an update of its 5G laptop, a new mass-market 11-inch tablet and a netbook device from its Lavie joint venture with NEC. In addition, the company is offering a new 'Show Mode' for integrating the Amazon Alexa assistant with its laptops, turning the computer into a hands-free communications display similar to Amazon's Echo Show.
Lenovo introduced its first 5G laptop with Qualcomm at CES last year, and the device started shipping from June in selected markets. The new model is a 14-inch clamshell laptop, which will be available also in a LTE-only version.
The IdeaPad 5G runs Windows 10 and the Qualcomm 8cx processor with the latest X55 5G modem, 8GB LPDDR4X memory and 512GB of PCIe SSD storage. Lenovo said the laptop will be available in select markets, but not North America at this time. No prices were announced.
The IdeaPad range also includes the new 5i Pro and Pro models, offering respectively the latest Intel Core processors or upcoming AMD Ryzen Mobile processors. This laptop is available with a 14- or 16-inch IPS display with 90/120 Hz refresh rate, Nvidia MX450 graphics, rapid charging, up to 16GB of DDR4 memory and up to 1TB SSD. These computers are expected to start shipping in certain models from March in the EMEA region, starting at EUR 699.
The Alexa Show Mode is expected to be available from Q1 for selected models of Yoga and IdeaPad laptops from Lenovo. Designed to make it easier for consumers to use the laptop as a communications and entertainment device, Show Mode transforms the PC into a hands-free, full-screen Alexa experience, with voice commands to control a wide range of functions.
Already available is the Lenovo Tab P11, a new 11-inch tablet priced at USD 230. Aimed at households and users with multiple needs, it comes with a 2K IPS display, up to 6 GB RAM, 8-megapixel front camera and the Snapdragon 662 processor with integrated LTE modem. Microsoft Office apps are pre-loaded, along with the Google Kids Space. Quad speakers are included, and an optional keyboard, stylus and charging station are available for multimedia use.
Lenovo is also still targeting the netbook space with the new Lavie Mini pocket-size convertible PC developed with NEC. Running the latest Intel Core i7 mobile processor with Intel Iris Xe graphics, the computer comes with an 8-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) touch display and weighs 579 grams.
It features a full keyboard with circular-shaped keys, Wi-Fi 6 and up to 256GB SSD of storage. The keyboard can be folded away to use the upright display for video applications, and controllers are available to attach to the sides of the display and turn the computer into a handheld gaming device. No details on pricing or availability were provided with the announcement.
