Ready For Ultra Mobile Computers?

In the last few months, we've seen a new kind of computer emerging in the marketplace. They are known as ultra-mobile portable computers and are compact enough to fit in your briefcase or shoulder bag. A few months ago, I was in the market for one of these pocket-sized computers I could take with me anywhere, thus eliminating the need to lug around a full-size notebook.

At the time I found the OQO, but after testing it out, I realized it would be difficult for me to adapt to the tiny keyboard, TrackStick mouse, and small five-inch screen. The company recently released the OQO model 01+ with the Tablet Edition software in January 2006 and retails for about $2099. The Gadgeteers did a complete review of this device a few months ago and found the screen to be too dim, it got pretty warm after prolonged use and used a lot of battery power.

Then more UMPC's (ultra-mobile PC) came on the scene and I thought the interface was nice, and the seven-inch screen size was perfect. Samsung's Ultra-Mobile Q1 has a 40GB hard drive, Intel Celeron M, Windows XP Tablet Edition, and costs $1,099. So far the most affordable of the three, although when the price was announced, I thought it was way too high to fit my budget. PCMag was not pleased by its lack of integrated keyboard or touchpad and found it to be frustrating during long writing assignments.

Last week, Sony introduced the VAIO UX Micro PC in Tokyo—which I haven't seen yet since it's not available in the U.S. until July. In comparison, the UX has a bright 4.5-inch wide SVGA screen, runs Windows XP PRO, has an Intel Core Solo along with two built-in cameras (one for video conferencing and the other for taking pictures) and Sony's Smart Wi, which toggles between WWAN, LAN and Bluetooth technology. As far as price is concerned, I'm sure most of us will consider a different computer when faced with an $1,800 price tag.

Digital World Tokyo got their hands on the device in Tokyo and found the keyboard was too small, keys are almost flush with the case (which makes it a bit odd to type on), and the 4.5in LCD was "sharp and bright" with a high resolution (1024x600) that would make your eyes squint to read text.

All three are aimed at mobile professionals and early adopters, and so are their high prices. Let's hope that a few years from now, these ultra-mobile computers drop in price to entice the rest of us.