Ultra-Mobile PC (UMPC) by MICROSOFT

The Origami Project was Microsoft’s codename for the development and launch of a new ultra-mobile PC. Many feel it was code named Origami as the release of information progressed over a period of time.
It is not meant to replace full size computers, but be used in conjunction and in place of an ultra portable laptop or PDA while on the road.

Size:
Weighs approximately 2 pounds Dimensions roughly the size of a medium-sized paperback book What's Inside:
Operates on Windows Tablet PC Edition 2005 Full versions of software programs. Microsoft Office, Microsoft OneNote, Movielink, Foldershare, Microsoft Streets and Trips 2006 Integrated touch panel Hardware options such as I/O ports will vary between manufacturers. Hard drives will be in the 30 – 60 range. Display:
Display – 7” or less. Resolution: 800 x 480 Minimum Battery Life: Initial models have a battery life of only 3 hours but plans are for the Ultra-Mobile PC to have all-day battery life.
Connections:
Wi-Fi Bluetooth – Connect to a Bluetooth enabled cell phone when Wi-Fi isn’t available. Ethernet How to Input or Access Data and Media:
Touchscreen Stylus Onscreen keyboard – which is used with your thumbs on the sides of the display. Hardware controls External mice or keyboards can be connected when needed. What Can You Do With It: It is capable of running full versions of programs, Internet connectivity, games and watching movies.
How Much & Where Can You Get One: Initial models will sell for around $1000 (US) and plans are for models to be available in the $500 (US) range in 2007.
Samsung, Asus and Founder have been named as manufacturers that will sell the Ultra-Mobile PC.
Just My Opinion: It isn’t a Tablet PC or PDA but rather a hybrid that is being promoted as allowing you to do anything from anywhere. The size is larger than you might expect – you won’t be putting the Ultra-Mobile PC inside your coat pocket.
The display is always exposed and since the weight is comparable to many other ultra portable laptops I’m not totally convinced that people will give up their ultra portable laptops or PDAs in favour of the Ultra-Portable PC.
Unlike the OQO which has a fold away keyboard there is no option with the Ultra-Mobile PC. You can use an external keyboard and that means an additional gadget to carry while traveling.
Reading a variety of blogs, it has been interesting to see what specs people wanted from this device prior to the full release of its specifications. The feature that was most in demand was phone capabilities, which at this point it does not have. Although you can use VoIP with the Wi-Fi access.
Overall, the concept is a good one but I don’t think this particular model is quite ready for mobile professionals at this time and perhaps it would be wise to wait until the next version has been released to see what changes and improvements have been made.