Lenovo has received a lot of attention recently for its Snapdragon powered smartbook, but the choice of OS is quite surprising…
According to Silicon.com, the multinational giant is considering Android as the device’s primary platform. The traditionally smartphone-focused OS has previously been seen on the Acer D250, but has otherwise largely been ignored in this space. Android is a touch-focused UI, so it will be interesting to see if Lenovo is prepared to include a touchscreen panel or simply rework the design
Personally, I think going with Android on a smartbook is a risk. It is unproven on this form factor and while smartbooks find their feet, a more traditional Linux build would make more sense. That said, given Qualcomm showed off its smartbook concept (pictured) earlier this month also running Android, it could well be that the decision has been made. Silicon also claims Lenovo is in talks with US telco AT&T to support the integrated 3G, which suggests the first smartbooks may launch with subsidized contracts.
Qualcomm has already confirmed it will out all the gory details at CES in January, so there won’t be long before things firm up. Handy, as we’re getting impatient!
Gordon
