New Atom-based UMPCs running a Windows desktop operating system are becoming very scarce as companies focus their efforts on Android tablets. So when a small group of them landed in my inbox this morning, it was like Halloween had come early and someone accidentally dropped their Rolex in my trick-or-treat bag.
Well, okay, a Rolex knock-off. It isn't the greatest device ever seen and it won't disrupt existing trends, but Mineral Technology is at least bringing a new UMPC to market. It's incredibly chunky and the specs won't blow your minds, yet the U91 still feels like a breath of fresh air. I don't think anyone's ever said that about an unknown Chinese company's products before!
Four configurations make up the U91 UMPC series, which all feature 7-inch WVGA two-point multitouch screens, 1.6GHz Atom N270 processors, WiFi, GPS, optional 3G, dual cameras, SD card slot, VGA and ethernet ports, and trackpads.
There are black, green, white, and red versions available, though it's possible that each one is specific to a particular configuration.
Here are the differentiating specs and prices:
- U91-S: 16GB SSD, 1GB RAM, $460
- U91G-S: 16GB SSD, 1GB RAM, $490
- U91-A: 32GB SSD, 2GB RAM, $520
- U91G-A: 32GB SSD, 2GB RAM, $540
I assume the G versions include 3G, but that isn't clear from the information.
I don't think there's any chance that the U91 will ever be sold globally and the styling definitely needs improvement, but I'm still happy to see a handheld device running Windows.
Thanks, Trapped.In.A.Room!
