Toshiba has unveiled one of the first 8-inch tablets to run Windows 8.1, after Microsoft released the updated OS to manufacturers.
Smaller Windows 8 tablets have been thin on the ground since Acer’s Iconia W3, released earlier this year. But Toshiba says it has developed the Encore in "close collaboration" with Microsoft, resulting in a tablet that it says makes the best of Windows 8.1.
The Encore is also one of the first to run Intel’s next-generation Bay Trail architecture, meaning it should be faster than rival Windows tablets. Toshiba touted "exceptional" battery life, but hasn't given more specific details about how long the tablet will last between charges.
The tablet boasts a wide-angle display with a 1,280 x 800 resolution.
The Encore comes with 32GB of in-built storage, with the option of adding another 32GB through the microSD slot. There’s also 2GB of RAM, an 8-megapixel rear camera, plus micro HDMI and micro USB 2.0 slots. The tablet weighs 480g and is 10.7mm thick – making it both lighter and slimmer than the Iconia W3.
The collaboration with Microsoft means the tablet comes optimised for Skype, with two beamforming microphones at the top of the tablet to reduce background noise and a 2-megapixel front-facing camera. It also comes equipped with a full version of Office Home & Student 2013, plus Xbox’s entertainment software.
Toshiba said the Encore will cost £250 (A$425), but couldn't specify a release date beyond the run-up to Christmas.
Windows 8.1 laptops
Toshiba also unveiled new PCs running Windows 8.1: the 13in, $599 (A$651) Satellite Click hybrid and the 11in, $379 (A$403) Satellite NB15t.
The Satellite Click is a tablet that clicks into a dock with a keyboard and touchpad to become a fully functioning laptop. The touchscreen device comes with a 500GB HDD, an AMD A4 chip and 4GB of RAM. It also comes with two batteries and is chargeable via ports on the dock or through the tablet. The device will be available to buy this month, but there's no detail on UK availability.
The smaller, budget Satellite NB15t laptop offers a 500GB HDD, 4GB of RAM and runs on an Intel Celeron processor, and features a touchscreen. The laptop won't be available until November, and again Toshiba hasn't given details on a UK price or arrival date.
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