Tech Diversions

Yeah there’s a lot to like about the iPad but I just don’t like how closed it is.  You have to use iTunes, buy apps through the store, and for a computer it has features missing.

HP has been quietly showing their Slate and this week leaked some details on specs and pricing ($549) over at engadget and HP released a video of the Slate doing things the iPad can’t like using an SD card, video conferencing, and a USB port.

They’ll have a custom interface on it but if you need a full OS you’ll have Windows 7 underneath.  Take a look at the video:

I’ve been interested in the S10-3t ever since CES, but no one has really run it through it’s paces yet.  Just yesterday I was able to try one out at Fry’s and for a netbook it was respectable.  Could it be better (ie: faster) yes.  At $499 it’s not bad and you can have a netbook and a tablet, but as much as I hate to say, it’s not as sexy as an iPad.  Maybe when the iPad and the other slates come out Lenovo will lower the price.  At $399 it would be a whole lot more appealing.  Cnet and engadget both have reviews out so go check them out.  I’m going to wait a bit before making the tablet jump, it’s beginning to be a crowded market out there.

More leaks on the Mini 5 are making it a very appealing device that (as I’ve said before) might just make it the perfect blend of features and form factor.  Check out Cnet and PC World for more.  Come on Dell, how about a release date and pricing!?

We’re going to get inundated with tablets.  I’ve been watching the Dell Mini 5 info leak out.  This might be the sweet spot of form factor and function.  If they price it less than the iPad it could be perfect.  Check out more at engadget.

Engadget has a “hands on” with the Dell Mini 5.  Dell’s Android tablet that’s somewhere in-between a phone and a full tablet.  It could end up being the surprise hit in the tablet/slate race.

Sightings of the new Asus T101MT have been found at engadget and MaximumPC.  A new 10.1” multi-touch convertible laptop.  No release dates or prices but it could give the Lenovo S10-3T a run for its money.

Lenovo has announced another multi-touch computer, this time an all-in-one desktop the C315.  Engadget has a few details.

MaximumPC has some info on an Acer tablet that has shown up in France.  No word on a US release but this would be a nice addition to the multi-touch, convertible space since it sports an CULV processor and an 11.6” screen.

If you are lucky enough to have an SSD drive in your system or you’re thinking about one as an upgrade, you should head over to TweakTown and check out their optimization guide for all kinds of tips to get the best out of your solid state goodness.