14 DAY TRIAL // As we are heading to an inevitable release of Microsoft's next-generation operating system, Windows 7, we keep seeing several system vendors gearing up for the much anticipated event. Such is the case with Archos, a French PC vendor that has just announced the introduction of its new Archos 9 PC Tablet, an 8.9-inch touchscreen UMPC that will provide users with a Windows 7 operating system and a low-power Atom Z515 1.2GHz processor. The device is scheduled to arrive later this year, most likely after the release of Windows 7, providing users with a choice for an ultraportable touchscreen device running the next-gen OS.
Aside from running Windows 7 and being powered by Intel's Atom Z515 processor, the new mini tablet PC from Archos has a built-in 80GB hard disk, Bluetooth connectivity, DVBT TV support and 1GB of DDR2 memory, packed inside a device that weighs in at just 800g and which is 0.63 inches thin. According to archoslounge, the new model also includes a built-in Realtek audio chip, VGA out, 10/100 Ethernet port and wireless 802.11 b/g connectivity. Users will also be able to take advantage of the system's USB connectivity, the 1.3MP webcam and the 3.5G HSUPA model.
Using the tablet's native touchscreen capabilities with the support enabled by Microsoft's Windows 7 operating system, users will be able to browse the Internet, check their emails, listen to music and deal with other, various applications that will be commonly available on the upcoming Windows 7 netbooks, nettops or fully fledged computer systems.
It's Archos’ plan to bring the tablet to market later this fall, at a recommended price tag of €500 ($705), likely following the release of Microsoft's upcoming OS. According to the French system vendor, this version will be followed by a 12-inch model, which will be launched early next year.