CES: Sony’s VAIO P is the sexy cat amongst the dull Netbook pigeons

by Stevie Smith - Jan 8 2009, 09:41

If you’re looking for an ultra-portable computer but the cramped keyboards and tiny screens attributed to most Netbook systems have thus-far left you cold, then perhaps Sony’s new VAIO P series is just what you’ve been holding out for.

While leaked pictures and general specifications had hinted at what would be on offer when Japanese electronics giant Sony Corp. finally raised the curtain on its VAIO P line, mild curiosity has now given way to unquenchable desire (for us at least) after seeing the little machine’s CES debut.

Arriving as a genuine wide-screen ultra portable, the VAIO P Lifestyle – which Sony is keen to stress is not a Netbook – is powered by Intel Corporation’s 1.33GHz Atom processor, offers up 2GBs of RAM, and also provides quick and reliable data storage through a 128GB solid state drive (SSD).

Available in four sleek colour choices (red, green, black and white), the Lifestyle has a generous keyboard with blessedly well-spaced keys, while its slender but appealing backlit LCD display screen effortlessly outstrips those currently provided in the Netbook category.

Granted, with a width of just 8.0-inches, there are bigger Netbook screens to be found, but the real point of intrigue with the Lifestyle is that its wide-screen display pumps out an undeniably impressive resolution of 1600x768.

All-important connectivity is supported by onboard Wi-Fi (802.11b/g), Bluetooth and even an integrated HSDPA module, while other features of note include built-in GPS, the Windows Vista operating system, and a frighteningly light physical weight of just 630g (a little under 1.4lbs).

Sony’s wish to distance the VAIO P Lifestyle from the budget Netbook masses certainly comes into play when considering the little computer’s asking price, which sees Sony looking for $900 USD when the Lifestyle hits U.S. retail this coming February.

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