Lenovo predicts rise of laptop-tablet hybrids
Tablet computers have had their day and it is time for hybrids, says company which has introduced its Windows 8 convertibles
Computer giant Lenovo expects global demand for so-called "convertibles", ultra-lightweight devices that combine laptop and media tablet functions, to start expanding from next year.
Chief executive Yang Yuanqing said Lenovo "believed the emotional purchase trend" for media tablets by consumers has reached its peak.
This has paved the way for the successful entry of new laptop-tablet hybrids led by the company's new ThinkPad "Twist" and IdeaPad "Yoga", he said.
"These convertibles will meet consumers' demand for more power in tablet devices," Yang said on Thursday.
Launched at a company event in New York last month, the IdeaPad Yoga has a hinge that allows a user to fold its 13.3-inch display from notebook to media tablet position in one simple motion.
This multi-mode device is powered by Intel's latest microprocessor and Microsoft's new Windows 8 operating system, which is primed for multi-touch screen operation.
The ThinkPad Twist, following its name, allows a user to twist its 12.5-inch multi-touch screen from notebook to media tablet position.