Desktops & Notebooks - eWeek

Desktops & Notebooks: Freescale Shows Off Futuristic Smartbook Prototypes at 2009 Computex


Freescale Semiconductor is embracing the netbook market, or, as it calls them, "smartbooks"—devices that are cloud-computing centric, have long battery life, are perpetually online and feature Freescale's i.MX515 processor technology. Freescale recently approached the Savannah College of Art and Design and challenged its students to rethink the form factor. Below are a few of Freescale's favorite prototype designs, which are on display at the Computex 2009 show in Taipei, Taiwan.
 
  • Freescale Shows Off Futuristic Smartbook Prototypes at 2009 Computex
    by Michelle Maisto
  • Freescale tasked young designers to create "new models and paradigms," it said in a statement. This prototype unfolds to offer a separate keyboard and mouse.
  • Freescale said the SCAD designs were highly innovative, yet practical, and "optimal for leveraging the small, fanless dimensions and low-power operation of Freescale's i. MX515 processor. This one features a touch screen interface.
  • Mix and match! This modular prototype design from SCAD allows users to customize their smartbook.
  • This smartbook prototype features a leather casing.
  • The stand on this prototype enables the smartbook to offers a sustained vertical display. It was likely created with the healthcare industry in mind.
  • This smartphone prototype features slide-out keypads. Glen Burchers, consumer segment marketing director, said in a statement: "Our engagement with SCAD demonstrates Freescale's intention to lead [the smartbook] evolution."
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