Computer maker Lenovo announced the launch of its latest notebook, the ThinkPad S431, which features a thin “floating design,” touch-screen display and is optimized for Microsoft’s Windows 8 operating system.
Aimed at working professionals and small and midsize businesses (SMBs) with a mobile workforce, the ThinkPad S431 offers enhanced performance and 15 percent faster processor speed than previous generations. The S431 is one of the first ThinkPads to feature the company’s OneLink technology, which allows users to connect to the ThinkPad OneLink Dock with one cable for dedicated video, additional USB 3.0 ports and Gigabit Ethernet, all while powering the system.
The ThinkPad S431 will be available in June from business partners and through the company’s Website. Pricing for the ThinkPad S431 starts at $699, and the ThinkPad OneLink Dock will be available May 21, according to a company release. The ThinkPad Edge E431 and E531 notebooks also became available April 30 through the same venues, and pricing for the ThinkPad Edge E431 and E531 starts at $509.
The ThinkPad S431 comes with a multi-finger touch-screen that makes swiping, selecting apps and resizing images possible and features a 180-degree open angle that lets users interact with the laptop in a number of use modes. The notebook has a six-row backlit keyboard that includes Windows 8 optimized shortcut keys. Additionally, the large touch-pad supports Windows 8 gestures.
“The progressive design of our ThinkPad S431 will help small businesses impress their customers. We pack a punch behind that style, however, as we are committed to delivering genuine substance,” Jerry Paradise, executive director of the Think Business Group, said in a statement. “The ThinkPad S431 offers an intuitive Windows 8 experience with the power needed to accelerate productivity.”
Featuring an ultra-thin bezel, the ThinkPad S431 is able to fit a 14-inch LCD screen in a 13-inch frame. The aesthetic exterior includes beveled edges on the front and side. An aluminum LCD cover, available in silver or graphite black, is sand-blasted and anodized. The ThinkPad S431 also boasts a simplified interior with a five-button click-pad with a glass surface to eliminate clutter.
The notebook is powered by Intel third-generation Core processors, offering up to nine hours of battery life. With up to 8GB of memory and 500GB of storage, the S431 can store up to 150,000 MP3s or 250 full-length feature films. The device also features two USB 3.0 ports.