Lenovo today revealed an updated convertible PC portfolio — the YOGA 3 Pro, YOGA Tablet 2 Pro and YOGA Tablet 2, powered by latest Intel processors.
Headlining the event was the new 13-inch YOGA 3 Pro, which is dramatically thinner and lighter than its predecessors. It also features a new unique, highly durable watchband hinge. The multi-mode champion — YOGA Tablet 2 Pro is the ultimate device for work and play, and now features a built-in pico projector, redesigned kickstand and an 8W subwoofer.
In his opening keynote, Country General Manager, Lenovo Malaysia, Khoo Hung Chuan saidd, “Many consumers loved the YOGA design and its unique features — for both PC and tablet. To continue evolving the YOGA range as a truly adaptable, intelligent device was a natural step. We wanted to give users a more compact machine with innovative features that will truly adapt to the user giving them the best experiences ever.”
Making ultrathin, ultralight devices is made possible by the super efficient, built-for-mobile 14nm 5th Generation Intel Core M processor. The new processor platform delivers 50% faster compute performance and 40% faster graphics performance versus the previous 4th Generation Core processor (Y series). The impressive chip is 50% smaller and draws as little as 4.5W (60% lower TDP than previous gen).
As seen in Intel’s Llama Mountain reference device, Intel Core M will continue to spur sleeker, lighter, fanless systems like the YOGA 3 Pro.
YOGA 3 Pro: World’s thinnest convertible notebook
The new YOGA 3 Pro shaves as much as 17% of its thickness compared to its predecessor, down to just 12.8mm thin, thinner than a pencil when opened. The convertible notebook weighs in at a featherweight 1.19kg — 14% less than before. It is officially the world’s thinnest convertible notebook at the moment.
What you’ll notice about the super sleek notebook is the top quality build overall, and the new watchband hinge, constructed from more than 800 pieces of steel and aluminium. Instead of the usual two focus points on a hinge, there are now six.
Slim and light doesn’t equate to compromised performance. The YOGA 3 Pro is packed with a brilliant 13-inch QHD+ display (3200×1800), protected by Gorilla Glass. Regardless of whatever mode you’re in — Laptop, Stand, Tent or Tablet mode, the display looks great.
Lenovo partnered JBL to bring quality audio to the notebook, integrating premium JBL speakers backed by Waves Audio.
In the heart of the new talented notebook is the quad-core Intel Core M-70 processor with integrated graphics, up to 8GB RAM, SSD storage of up to 512GB, WiFi 802.11ac and a 45W battery that delivers up to seven hours of battery life.
With the new notebook, Lenovo is introducing Harmony — a new concept of adaptive computing that complements the YOGA’s responsive hardware features. Harmony helps users to discover applications and customises features based on user usage. For example, when reading an e-book, Harmony changes the brightness and colour temperature according to environment lighting.
YOGA Tablet 2 Pro: The award-winning multi-mode tablet gets even better
Call it the YOGA Tablet or the “tablet that Ashton” built, but there’s no denying that the original YOGA Tablet was a refreshing new take on tablet design. The tablet didn’t just win consumer hearts, but also won industry acclaim, winning numerous industry and design accolades since its introduction.
The new YOGA Tablet 2 Pro, was also developed with Ashton Kutcher, who joined Lenovo as a product engineer a year ago.
The YOGA Tablet 2 Pro is now even more refined, featuring a redesigned kickstand that allows for 180-degree movement and a new mode called Hang.
The star feature though, is the built-in Pico projector that lets you turn walls and ceilings into an instant TV or movie screen. The projector comes with automatic image adjustment with up to three hours playback time. With an optimum projection distance of 3-5m, projection is equivalent to a 50-inch screen.
Just like its predecessor, sound quality should be captivating enough with 8W of power, and a subwoofer around back that’s enhanced with Dolby Audio and Wolfson Master HiFi.
The new tablet also gets a super bright and sharp QHD (2560×1440) display.
The YOGA Tablet 2 Pro runs on the latest 4th Generation Intel Atom processor with 2GB RAM, 32GB storage (upgradable to 64GB via microSD) and an 8MP rear camera. It also has optional 4G connectivity.
Battery life is claimed to be up to 15 hours.
Lenovo also revealed an updated 8-inch YOGA Tablet 2 and 10-inch YOGA Tablet 2 running Windows 8.1.
Technology Inspires Creativity
In conjunction with the launch, Lenovo is partnering with Urbanscapes 2014 to engage with local talents of Malaysia. Part of the collaboration includes an online contest for consumers entitled ‘Technology Inspires Creativity.’ Fans can submit their most creative artwork for device skins and slogans.
I’ve been selected to be one of the judges for the contest, alongside Dj Eva T, a well-known “Electronic Dance Music Queen,” Dennis Yin, dancer/choreographer from award-winning dance crew, Elecoldxhot and Yuyu Suilaika,a local fashion influencer.
Top three winners will be chosen by judges, with the winners to walk away with the latest YOGA devices, prizes and tickets to 2014 Urbanscapes.
2014 Urbanscapes is happening at Horse Ranch, Resorts World Genting on 6 December 2014.
Pricing and availability
Lenovo YOGA 3 Pro retails at RM4,999. Lenovo YOGA Tablet 2 Pro is priced at RM1,999, Lenovo YOGA Tablet 2 8-inch and 10-inch retail at RM1,099, and RM1,599 respectively.
