There is no denying that tablets are changing the way most users are consuming Web content and the ways people are accomplishing various methods of computing. Methods, which just a few years ago were destined to be done at home on a desktop PC; or in a semi-mobile way (compared to smartphones and tablets) on a laptop.
However, with Intel’s big push for an “ultrabook” lineup of computing devices, is this a continuation of the tablet evolution and a device that combines the best aspects of all mobile PCs? Or is the ultrabook simply a Macbook Air with a different coating and company behind it?
According to Hothardware, ultrabooks are a reinvention of personal computers that bear many tablet features. However, the price is the big “if” factor that will determine if this product remains a niche or a huge success like the iPad.
“For all the platform’s theoretical advantages, price has been a major concern; the Macbook Air’s $999 base price is nearly double the average selling price of a PC laptop. Historically, PC buyers have balked at the high price tags attached to then-current thin-and-light notebooks–such products may have niche value, but the idea of launching mainstream products built around the concept has made more than a few companies uneasy.”
An Intel Ultrabook
This could explain whether Macbook Airs are not taking off in the spectacular fashion the iPad did (although they are popular Apple Mac products). Of course, there is the whole marketing aspect of the equation. Also the fact the iPad runs off of iOS — making it run off the success of the iPhone and iPod Touch. Lastly, direct touch through the use of the touchscreen made the tablet what it is. An ultrabook or a Macbook Air offers the tablet advantage of an SSD, light form factor, nice battery life, but it is still ultimately a different take on a standard laptop or netbook.
In terms of interactivity, a tablet has a touchscreen as compared to a mouse or trackpad — thus bringing users right into using the device without the need of peripherals. It will remain to be seen how popular these ultrabooks become despite their current price; and how well their trackpad stands up to the touchscreen. One thing is for sure, however — tablets have been reinventing the entire industry. Now big-name companies, like Intel, are responding to tablets’ success with hybrid products.
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