Microsoft and Qualcomm today unveiled the very first “Always Connected PCs”. These laptops will be running Windows 10 on ARM-based Qualcomm SoCs. This means today’s top-tier smartphone chip will be powering Hybrid laptops. In addition, It will also offer built-in LTE connectivity and longer battery life than x86 PCs.
Cristano Amon, EVP of Qualcomm Technologies and QTC quoted: “At the second annual Snapdragon Technology Summit, we are excited to highlight our role in the mobile ecosystem while we continue to execute on our strategy with Microsoft for the Always-Connected PC.”
So, you’ll be wondering now what’s this Always-Connected Pc means? Here is the explanation:
Always Connected PC:
Always Connected PCs will run full Windows 10 – whether it is Windows 10 S, Windows 10 Home, or Windows 10 Pro. It can also run all Win32 applications. Initially, the device running on Windows 10S platform can easily be upgraded to Windows 10 pro.
Microsoft says it is the next big revolution in the tech industry after the original laptop and virtual reality. On this occasion, Cristiano Amon, the head of Qualcomm’s chip business said: “What we’re thinking is how can we make the PC more like a smartphone.” So in this context, we would like to mention the features of always connected PC.
Always Connected PC Features:
Instant On: the display is optimized to turn on instantly as the user lifts the lid. Like your smartphone, Always Connected PCs don’t hibernate.
Always connected: These devices will be featuring Qualcomm Snapdragon X16 LTE modem. That means it will support LTE networks, So no need to find a WiFi connection. In addition, these PCs will get notifications, alerts, and pull data without ever disconnecting, just like a smartphone.
Battery life: Now the battery life will be excellent as these will be running on Snapdragon 835 SOC. Always Connected PC is at least four times the size of a smartphone so we can expect a bigger battery underneath.
ASUS NovaGo and HP Envy x2:
Microsoft Executive Vice President of the Windows and Devices Group Terry Myerson showed off the first-ever Always Connected PCs from Asus and HP. These new devices from HP and ASUS will go on sale in early 2018. Lenovo will also have an Always Connected PC product in early 2018.
ASUS NovaGO:
Asus NovaGo, will be the world’s first Gigabit LTE convertible laptop. It also claims to offer a good 30-hour resting battery life and 22 hours of active usage with its 52Wh battery. Now let’s have a quick look at the Specification:
The ASUS NovaGo is a hybrid convertible 13-inch laptop with an FHD 1080p touch display. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 SoC, up to 8GB of RAM, and up to a 256GB SSD (Solid State Drive). Two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports, one HDMI port, and a microSD card slot. It runs on Microsoft Windows 10 S that brings new features like Windows Ink, Windows Hello, and Cortana. weighs 1.39kg and measures 316 x 221.6 x 14.9mm. There are also eSIM and Nano-SIM options available.
ASUS NovaGo 4G RAM and 64GB storage model will cost $499, while the 8GB RAM and 256GB storage model will cost $799.
HP Envy x2:
The HP Envy x2 is also powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 SoC. It is an ultra-thin Surface-like PC with 4G LTE2, Wi-Fi and up to 20 hours of active battery support. HP Envy x2 has a smaller 12.3-inch display with 6.9mm thickness. It will come with a touch display and a companion stylus for pen input as well that makes it better to use as a tablet. Storage and memory options go up to a 256GB SSD and 8GB of RAM and the HP Envy x2 starting price is $599.
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