Lenovo Windows 8 Tablet Has IT In Mind

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PC maker Lenovo took the wraps off its first tablet designed specifically to run Microsoft's new touch-centric Windows 8 operating system.

The ThinkPad Tablet 2, unveiled Thursday, includes a number of features that should appeal to road warriors, including built-in, pay-as-you-go 3G and 4G wireless, digitizer and pen support, and a generous, 10.1-inch screen in a package that checks in at 9.88 millimeters thick and 1.3 pounds.

The ThinkPad Tablet 2, which comes with Windows 8 Pro, is powered by Intel's Atom architecture. It features a number of ports, including a full-sized USB port, to accommodate a range of peripherals such as monitors and keyboards.

"Customers want a versatile device that fits their lifestyle and the many ways they use technology," said Dilip Bhatia, VP and general manager for Lenovo's ThinkPad business unit, in a statement.

The device, among the first Windows 8 slates to formally debut, should also appeal to IT departments. Security features include encrypted storage and an optional fingerprint reader, and it supports the full range of Microsoft's back-end security and management technologies.

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Bhatia said the Tablet 2 is consumer friendly, "while offering companies and IT managers the oversight they need to help secure and manage their company's networks and data."

Other features include an HD display, front- and rear-facing cameras, noise-canceling microphones, an HDMI port, and support for wireless video streaming.

Lenovo appears to be fully behind Windows 8. "For the next generation of Lenovo PCs, designed to be great with Windows 8, we're working closer than ever with Microsoft and our silicon partners," said Bhatia.

The same can't be said for some other OEMs. Acer officials earlier this week said the company could bolt the Windows camp over Microsoft's decision to introduce its own, self-branded Windows 8 tablet called Surface.

"If Microsoft ... is going to do hardware business, what should we do? Should we still rely on Microsoft, or should we find other alternatives?" said Campbell Kan, president of PC global operations for Acer, in an interview with the Financial Times.

Lenovo did not announce pricing, but said the Tablet 2 will be available starting Oct. 26, when Windows 8 makes its retail debut.