Computex is underway in Taiwan this week and the show is one of the largest electronics and computer trade shows in the industry. There will be all sorts of computer gear and other devices like tablets unveiled at the show.
MSI has unveiled a pair of new prototype tablets for the first time. The WindPad 100 grabbed some time at the MSI press conference and sports an Intel Atom CPU. The CPU is the Z530 and the machine runs Windows 7 with a custom UI over the top. It has a 10-inch capacitive touchscreen and price is said to be in the $499 range when it launches later this year.
MSI WindPad 100: A Closer Look
The WindPad 100 is designed to cater to users who prefer the familiarity and functionality of a Windows operating system. The Intel Atom Z530 CPU is known for its balance between performance and power efficiency, making it suitable for a tablet device. The custom UI layered over Windows 7 aims to enhance the user experience by providing more intuitive navigation and access to frequently used applications. The 10-inch capacitive touchscreen is responsive and supports multi-touch gestures, which is a significant advantage for productivity tasks and media consumption. The expected price point of $499 positions it competitively in the market, especially considering the features it offers.
MSI WindPad 110: The Android Contender
The more interesting of the two tablets is the WindPad 110. This machine wasn’t in the press conference, but is in the booth at the show. It sports NVIDIA Tegra 2 power and runs Android OS. The tablet has the same 10-inch touchscreen and will sell for $399, if it makes it to market at the end of the year. I bet it will make it, Android tablets are likely to be more popular than Windows one. Have a look and our article on Android vs iPhone to see which smartphone and mobile platform is best for you.
The WindPad 110’s use of the NVIDIA Tegra 2 chipset is particularly noteworthy. The Tegra 2 is a dual-core processor that promises robust performance for multimedia applications, gaming, and multitasking. Running on the Android OS, the WindPad 110 is expected to offer a more flexible and customizable user experience compared to its Windows counterpart. Android’s extensive app ecosystem and frequent updates make it an attractive option for tech enthusiasts and casual users alike. The $399 price tag makes it an even more compelling choice for those looking for a budget-friendly yet powerful tablet.
The competition between the WindPad 100 and WindPad 110 highlights the ongoing battle between Windows and Android in the tablet market. Each operating system has its strengths and caters to different user preferences. Windows 7 on the WindPad 100 offers a more traditional computing experience with access to a wide range of desktop applications, making it ideal for business users and those who need a full-fledged operating system. On the other hand, the WindPad 110’s Android OS provides a more modern, app-centric experience that is perfect for media consumption, social networking, and casual gaming.
In conclusion, MSI’s introduction of the WindPad 100 and WindPad 110 at Computex showcases the company’s commitment to innovation and its understanding of diverse consumer needs. Whether you prefer the robust, desktop-like experience of Windows 7 or the flexible, app-rich environment of Android, MSI’s new tablets offer something for everyone. As the year progresses, it will be interesting to see how these devices perform in the market and how they influence the ongoing evolution of tablet technology.
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