14 DAY TRIAL // Now that HP's and Toshiba's Intel Atom N4550-powered DDR3-capable netbooks have been exposed, it is no longer a surprise to hear that this more capable memory type is going to show up in devices from other manufacturers. In fact, considering how long OEMs have been waiting for DDR3 support on netbooks, it would make less sense not to hear of others joining the fray. Not meaning to disappoint, Lenovo is also bent on upgrading one of its entry-level mobile PCs.
The low-cost, portable personal computer that will boast the new, unannounced Intel CPU is known as the Lenovo IdeaPad S10-3. Like the ones launched by the PC maker's competitors, the laptop will be powered by the Intel Atom N455 central processing unit, which, despite having the same speed as the Atom N450 (1.66GHz), enables support for DDR3 memory, thus improving overall performance.
Like many of today's netbooks, the Lenovo IdeaPad S10-3 will come pre-loaded with the Microsoft Windows 7 Starter operating system. The N455 is backed up by 1GB DDR3 and is paired with the GMA 3150 integrated graphics. This hardware will make sure to keep the 10.1-inch display occupied at all times. In addition, the configuration will feature a hard drive with a storage capacity of 250GB and wireless connectivity via WiFi, Bluetooth and optional 3G.
This new mobile PC offering, the same as its rivals, is meant to keep consumer interest high in this market segment and, if at all possible, further increase it. Unfortunately, it is not exactly clear how long a battery life this particular model will have, nor is there any mention of when it will show up in stores. This is unsurprising, considering that the CPU itself has not come out yet. As for pricing, the laptop will sell for £298.90, which translates into 345 Euro or $458.