Microsoft Gulf, Intel and DTK Computer have said their new low-cost Netbook, the DTK ebook i10, offers high performance affordable computing.

The companies said they launched the ultra-portable product with an aim to bridge the digital divide and increase computer penetration in the Middle East.

Combining all the features of a regular notebook, the eBook i10 is ideal for sectors such as education, government and telecom, looking for a comprehensive low priced mobility solution, a statement said.

Based on a Microsoft Windows XP operating system, the DTK eBook i10 uses an Intel Atom N 270 processor (1.6 GHz) for increased power and excellent performance.

It is ideal for live video conversation and comes with an integrated web camera and stereo speakers, integrated into its sleek design.

The Netbook allows users to carry out functions such as connecting to the Internet, email, messaging, music, photo and video viewing and numerous other Internet activities and basic applications.

Combined with a system memory of 1 GB upgradeable to 2 GB; weight of 1.2 kilos including the battery; a 10.2' LCD screen; high definition audio and a 1.3 MP web camera, this new Netbook embodies the essential features of an affordable mobile computing device.

The DTK eBook i10 is priced at $500 and is available at select retail outlets across the Middle East.

During the launch, Charbel Fakhoury, general manager, Microsoft Gulf, said: 'In an increasingly connected world, our ability to affect positive change depends on our capacity to introduce technology and products that are affordable, accessible and relevant to the consumer.

'This device is a great tool for academia and students as it is a fully fledged product with all specifications and features and offers a personalised learning experience. Microsoft has a long history of improving the experience of learning through technology to help people realise their full potential.

'The DTK eBook i10 is an exciting new platform designed to meet the needs of today's students and sets the stage for the vision of one-to-one computing. Microsoft is committed to providing Windows based solutions for devices such as the DTK eBook i10 thereby ensuring a familiar and high quality computing experience at an affordable cost.'

Samir Al Schamma, Intel's general manager in the GCC, said: 'The Intel Atom processor was purpose-built for simple, affordable, Netbooks such as the DTK eBook i10, which is amongst the first Netbook of its kind, based on the Intel Atom processor technology to be launched in the region.

'Individuals – not households – will drive the next era of growth with people each owning one or more computing devices, especially here in the GCC. People have an innate desire to be 'connected' all the time and see personalised, mobile technology as the way to meet that need. The Intel Atom based Netbooks are meant to address that need.'

Nimer Al Attal, managing director, DTK Computer Middle East said: 'DTK has been at the forefront of introducing innovative, high-performing technologies that address consumer customer needs for increased computing capacity, greater performance, scalability and reliability.

'The DTK eBook i10 has an easy-to-use interface built as a small form-factor at a low-cost. We are pleased to partner with Microsoft and Intel to introduce a new high-performance personal computer in the region.'
 
For a comfortable, more natural computing experience, DTK has fitted the eBook i10 with a Li-ion three cell batteries. The DTK eBook i10 is also equipped with SD/MS/MMC/MSPro card reader.

Standard networking features include an Ethernet port and 802.11b/g WiFi and Bluetooth 2.0. The Netbook is also equipped with trial versions of Microsoft Windows Office, Windows Security and Windows Live. - TradeArabia News Service