Intel Shows off Whisper-Thin Laptop Prototype

I never thought I'd actually get excited about a Windows-based laptop—that is, not until I laid eyes on this runway-ready prototype from Intel. Gizmodo has the scoop on this literally RAZR-thin device, dubbed the "Intel Mobile Metro Notebook," which measures just 0.7 inches thick and weighs in at a barely-there 2.25 pounds. Sign me up!

Developed with help from Ziba Design, the sleek Metro prototype (which Intel claims could actually see the light of day this year) doesn't skimp on specs: we're talking Intel processors (natch, and I'm guessing/hoping they're of the Core Duo variety), embedded chips capable of tapping into cellular, Wi-Fi, and WiMax networks, a flash-memory hard drive, and a battery that'll last about 14 hours. The Metro will (or could, I suppose) also come with its own slim, magnetic folder, which would snap onto the laptop and act as a wireless charger, while on one side of the folder you'd find a low-power, always-on screen (designed by the display pioneers at E Ink) that would show, say, a picture or your agenda. Ready to hit the town? Just attach the included strap onto the snap-on folder to turn the Metro into the ultimate fashion accessory.

Again, while the Metro is really just a prototype, Intel execs insist that a PC maker could potentially release a version sometime before the year is out (although plus or minus some of the features mentioned above). However, when (and if) the Metro makes it to store shelves, it won't be cheap; Intel designers said that "price was not a concern" when they were developing the Metro. Gulp.

Related:
Intel Unveils World's Thinnest Laptop, Almost Skinny as a RAZR [Gizmodo]