OQO went out of business back in 2009 and stopped making UMPCs. However, it now seems that they are preparing to launch a new model, the OQO Model O3 UMPC.
The OQO Model O3 has been spotted on their Chinese website, and it looks like it will come with Windows 7. Interestingly, it appears that the Chinese arm of the company didn’t go out of business when the US part did.
Specifications and Features
The OQO Model O3 will feature a 2GHz Intel Atom Z550 processor, 2GB of RAM, and a 128GB solid-state drive (SSD). This combination of hardware should provide a decent performance for a UMPC, making it suitable for various tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and multimedia playback. Additionally, it will come with Intel GMA500 graphics, which, while not the most powerful, should be adequate for basic graphical tasks and light gaming.
Connectivity options are robust, with integrated wireless LAN, Bluetooth 2.0, and 3G. This ensures that users can stay connected on the go, whether they are using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth peripherals, or mobile data networks. The inclusion of 3G is particularly noteworthy, as it allows for internet access in areas without Wi-Fi coverage, making the device highly versatile for mobile professionals.
One of the standout features of the OQO Model O3 is its slide-out QWERTY keyboard. This design choice provides a tactile typing experience, which can be more comfortable and efficient than using an on-screen keyboard, especially for extended typing sessions. The keyboard’s slide-out mechanism also helps maintain the device’s compact form factor when not in use.
Price and Market Position
It seems that this could be one expensive UMPC, as the price listed in the specifications sheet is 31,888 yuan, which works out at around $4,700. This high price point suggests that the OQO Model O3 is aimed at a niche market of die-hard UMPC fans and professionals who require a highly portable yet capable computing device.
The premium pricing could be justified by the device’s unique features and the brand’s legacy. OQO was known for pioneering the UMPC market, and their devices were often seen as innovative and ahead of their time. The Model O3 continues this tradition by offering a blend of portability, connectivity, and functionality that is rare in today’s market.
However, the high cost may also limit its appeal to a broader audience. In a market where tablets and ultrabooks are becoming increasingly powerful and affordable, the OQO Model O3 will need to offer significant advantages to justify its price. Potential buyers might be drawn to its compact size, physical keyboard, and the ability to run a full version of Windows 7, which can support a wide range of software applications.
UMPC Portal via Slash Gear, Tech Fresh
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