14 DAY TRIAL // Earlier this year, Dell announced the introduction of the much-hyped Adamo laptop, an ultraportable PC designed to become a competitor for Apple's successful MacBook Air. Just recently, the Round Rock, Texas-based PC vendor has reduced the prices on said laptop, in order to better compete with the MacBook Air. On that note, it appears that Dell is preparing another assault on Apple's pride and joy, with the introduction of recently rumored Latitude Z-series, an ultraportable laptop that will be designed for professionals.
Just recently, an article on said laptop has surfaced on the Register Hardware website, providing details on Dell's upcoming ultraportable PC. Unfortunately, the article appears to have been pulled down, probably due to an NDA with the PC vendor. However, the fellows over at Fast Company have been quick with snatching the juicy details and even photos of said laptop.
According to them, the Latitude Z will be powered by Intel's CULV platform, featuring an Intel Core 2 Duo processor, clocked at 1.6GHz with 2GB or 4GB of RAM and a high-capacity 256GB solid-state drive. The system also comes with a fingerprint and RFID reader, a 2MP webcam and a 1,600 by 900-pixel widescreen. It will run on a choice of Windows Vista or Windows 7, when the latter launches, but will also be featured with a special Linux install, dubbed Latitude On. This could be an instant-on solution for Dell's upcoming Latitude laptop, providing users with quick access to Internet, Mail and multimedia applications.
Unfortunately the system could be launched by late August or early September, according to available details, as it looks like Dell is taking its time with it. As far as pricing goes, don't expect anything too cheap, although the system is based on Intel's CULV platform. Apparently, you'll have to dig deep in your pockets for this one, as Dell is expected to charge you for about US$2,400.
