14 DAY TRIAL // According to a recently leaked roadmap on Lenovo's next-generation lineup of portable computer systems, the company is planning to launch new ThinkPad models, part of its X, T, W, SL and SLc series of laptops due out early next year. What is interesting about these new solutions is that they will be built on Intel's next-generation laptop platform, codenamed Calpella, which is expected to provide users with new levels of performance and energy efficiency.
Calpella is Intel's next-generation platform for portable computer systems, focusing on systems with 14-, 15-, 17- and 18-inch form factors. These new chips are to provide users with higher levels of performance, while also reducing the power consumption, thanks to a new chip architecture based on the company's latest Nehalem chips. The launch of Calpella, due out in the second half of this year, will be preceded by some price reductions on Intel's current Montevina platform, helping vendors clear up inventory for the upcoming chips.
In a recent post on the Chinese Engadget, Lenovo's leaked ThinkPad roadmap indicates that the system vendor is planning to launch its new Calpella-based ThinkPad laptops as early as next year, sometime during the first quarter of 2010. Calpella-based systems will be available in the vendor's SL, SLc, X, T and W-series of laptops, providing customers with a full range of new Intel-based machines. As some of you already know, ThinkPad laptops are generally built for business users, providing them with a sleek design and the latest features in hardware.
Although no details were made available, Lenovo could also be planning the update of its other line of portable PCs, the more consumer-oriented IdeaPad series. These new Calpella-based laptops could be rolled out later this year, as Intel is expected to introduce Calpella before the end of 2009.
