Lenovo ThinkPad Twist for Convertible Ultrabooks

Lenovo today announced its take on a modern Windows 8 convertible notebook with the all new ThinkPad Edge Twist. The Twist is being marketed as an all-in-one mobile PC designed to simplify the purchasing process for businesses that have trouble deciding if they should invest in notebooks or tablets.

The Twist can be used as a standard, full performance Ultrabook, but with a simple twist of the screen the PC switches to a convertible tablet. The 12.5-inch screen gives working professionals the workspace they need for serious computing and the ThinkPad Twist is likewise loaded with business features like up to 3rd generation Intel Core i7 processors, up to Windows 8 Pro, optional 3G, large storage up to 500GB HDD or 128GB SSD and the ThinkPad-brand's legendary keyboard, quality and reliability features. Users can work for hours with "nearly all-day battery life" (7 hours) and tablet-like quick resume from standby. The Twist also includes dedicated software tools specifically for small business.

ThinkPad Twist's extra-bright 350nit HD display and Dolby Home Theatre should deliver an impressive multimedia experience for everything from video presentations to playing your favorite movie on a flight. You can also connect the Twist to a HDTV or projector with the Twist's mini-HDMI or DisplayPort jack. Like the new IdeaPad Yoga, you can convert the Twist into a "stand" for presentations or collaboration with others while taking advantage of the multitouch screen.

The ThinkPad Twist will be available starting on Oct. 26 via Staples and other retailers, business partners and www.lenovo.com. MSRP starts at $849.

Lenovo ThinkPad Edge Twist Specs:

• Processor: 3rd Generation Intel Core processors up to i7
• Operating System: Windows 8 Standard or Windows 8 Pro
• Windows 8 multi touch-enabled Display/Resolution: 12.5-inch HD IPS Display w/ Touch Sensor (1366 x 768) 350 nit; Gorilla glass with anti smudge coating
• Video Graphics: Intel Integrated Graphics
• Memory: Up to 8GB DDR3 1600 MHz
• Storage: 320/500 7200RPM (7mm) HDD ; 128GB SSD
• Sound: Dolby Home Theater v4; stereo speakers; built-in dual array microphone (combo jack)
• Ports: 2 x USB 3.0 ports; RJ45 connector; 4-in-1 slot; mini-DisplayPort; mini-HDMI
• Connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet; Bluetooth 4.0 + ABGN WLAN; WWAN Optional; USB 3.0; HDMI
• Camera: 720p high definition camera
• Battery: 7 hour "all day" battery life
• Weight: 3.48 pounds (1.58 kg)
• Thickness: 0.79 inches thin (20 mm thin)
• Software: Lenovo Solutions for Small Business powered by Intel Small Business Advantage; Lenovo Cloud Storage by SugarSync
• Price: Starting at $849