Pegatron has just showcased its new MasterPad Windows 7 tablet equipped with an 11.6-inch touch screen. The MasterPad is still in the prototype stage at the moment, but first impressions look very promising. It might even be the embodiment of the Windows 7 devices Steve Ballmer is hoping will help Microsoft compete with Apple’s iPad.
Key Features and Specifications
The MasterPad boasts an 11.6-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 1,366 x 768, providing vibrant colors and wide viewing angles. It is equipped with a 1.3-megapixel web camera, which is ideal for video conferencing and casual photography. The device also includes 2 x USB ports, a memory card reader, an accelerometer for screen orientation, a mini-HDMI port for video output, and 3G connectivity for on-the-go internet access. Storage options include either a 32GB or 64GB solid-state drive, catering to different user needs. Weighing around 990g, the MasterPad is relatively lightweight, making it portable and easy to carry around.
However, the MasterPad still has some weaker points, such as the 5-hour battery life, which may not be sufficient for a full day of use without recharging. Additionally, it is powered by a 1.66 GHz Intel Atom N450 processor, which, while energy-efficient, may not deliver the high performance expected by power users. These aspects are hopefully going to be overhauled before the official release. Despite these drawbacks, the MasterPad promises 1080p video playback and flash compatibility, making it a versatile device for multimedia consumption.
Potential Impact and Market Position
The introduction of the MasterPad could significantly impact the tablet market, especially for users who prefer the Windows operating system over iOS or Android. With its robust feature set, the MasterPad aims to bridge the gap between traditional laptops and tablets, offering a more versatile computing experience. The inclusion of USB ports and a mini-HDMI port, for instance, provides greater connectivity options compared to many other tablets on the market, which often rely solely on proprietary connectors.
Moreover, the MasterPad’s 3G connectivity ensures that users can stay connected to the internet even when Wi-Fi is not available, making it a suitable choice for business professionals and frequent travelers. The solid-state drive options also enhance the device’s performance and reliability, as SSDs are faster and more durable than traditional hard drives.
Despite its promising features, the MasterPad will face stiff competition from established players like Apple’s iPad and various Android tablets. To stand out, Pegatron will need to address the current shortcomings, particularly the battery life and processor performance. If these issues are resolved, the MasterPad could become a strong contender in the tablet market.
The Pegatron MasterPad has the potential to be a game-changer in the Windows tablet segment. Its combination of a high-resolution IPS screen, multiple connectivity options, and solid-state drive storage makes it a compelling choice for users seeking a versatile and portable computing device. As Pegatron continues to refine the prototype, it will be interesting to see how the final product shapes up and whether it can truly compete with the likes of Apple’s iPad.
Via Engadget
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