News: Computer Hardware for Small Business

Details taking shape for Microsoft's 'Origami'

Will the small Ultra-Mobile PC find a place in the big world of small business?

by Keith R. Wheeler

3/12/2006

With more details set to be released this Thursday at the CeBit trade show in Hanover, Germany, Microsoft has Apple-type buzz surrounding its “Origami Project”. The first thing to note is that the name of the project has already been changed. According to Microsoft’s website, the Ultra-Mobile PC will be the next big thing. Microsoft currently has two different operating systems which target portable computing: Microsoft Windows XP TabletPC Edition and Windows Mobile 5.0. Naturally, XP TabletPC Edition works on all types of convertible and slate TabletPC’s. Windows Mobile is designed for PocketPC’s and smart phones. The operating system for the UMPC is going to be the full version of Windows XP TabletPC 2005 Edition. The most fascinating aspect of the UMPC is the hardware Microsoft expects to be available at their target price point in the range of $600-1000. The unit features a 7 inch LCD screen with a minimum screen resolution of 800 by 480. The device has a weight in the neighborhood of 2-3 pounds. It uses a pen stylus for input along with a touch pad built-in to the screen. A clever implementation of a keyboard substitute employs a pop-up of concentric rings of letters to expedite thumb typing. Connectivity is accomplished by the built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth networking capabilities. Since the UMPC uses the full version of Windows XP TabletPC Edition, the full version of Microsoft Office could be installed. In fact, most software is expected to be able to run properly without modification. Potential small business clients should be excited by the low price entry point. However, some things don’t quite add up to make the UMPC a desktop replacement. Most likely, the UMPC would serve well as a communication device while not in the office. With the lack of integrated keyboard, the amount of document preparation or spreadsheet analysis would be limited, but useful in a pinch. The consumer market is more likely the ultimate goal for the UMPC. It can compete with the higher end music/video players on the market now. It makes sense as a short message communications tool. In fact, it would be terrific complement to the family digital camera on vacation. There is the potential for the UMPC to become a key tool in specific vertical markets. For instance, the medical field may take very well to such a device in order to have instant, roving access to medical information about each patient they visit with the ability to update files with short notes. The market, along with Microsoft’s ability to make the UMPC a success, will develop these custom solutions. It appears that Microsoft has two vendors with intentions of having UMPC’s available for purchase by the end of April, this April. Microsoft has managed to develop some of the industry “buzz” for which Apple has become legend. Now, we’ll see if they can deliver the product and packaging to turn it into the next technology fashion statement.