Lenovo introduced the ThinkPad Helix convertible Ultrabook/tablet hybrid that can be used in different ways and positions. Joining the flipping, swiveling ThinkPad Twist, the Helix has a new flexible transformation design called ‘rip and flip’. It runs Windows 8 x86.
The ThinkPad Helix consists of two components, a 11.6-inch tablet and a keyboard base. When combined, they become a powerful Ultrabook, and for mobility, the 11.6-inch tablet can detach from the based and become the thinnest full-function Ivy Bridge Core tablet. While the ThinkPad Twist allows users to flip and twist the display, the ‘rip and flip’ design of the Helix lets users detach the tablet from the base, flip it 180-degree and snap it back. This is what Lenovo call Stand Mode that transform the Helix into a mini-movie theater or business presentation central. Of course, you can fold the screen down and use the tablet with the keyboard base connected (Lenovo calls this mode Tablet+).
The Helix tablet has a 11.6-inch Full HD 1080p IPS 10-finger multitouch display and comes with a ThinkPad touch pen for easy navigation and interaction. The screen is protected by Gorilla Glass. Lenovo also equipp the hybrid with a new five-button trackpad with a larger surface. Yet, the buttons for use with TrackPoint has been removed and integrated into the trackpad.
The Helix ultrabook/tablet hybrid is powered by Intel’s 3rd gen Core processor up to Core i7-3667U, up to 8GB of RAM and integrated Intel HD 4000 graphics. It comes with up to 256GB of SSD for storage. You can expect WiFi, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS as well as NFC and LTE 4G connectivity. Other features include 5 Megapixel main camera, 2 Megapixel front camera, miniDisplay Port output, USB 3.0 port, and Dolby Home Theater v4 sound. The tablet weighs just 835g and it is just 1.7kg when attached to the keyboard base.
You can expect up to 6 hours of battery life for the tablet, and up to 10 hours when the Helix is used as a laptop. Coming in late-February, the ThinkPad Helix starts at $1499.
Unboxed:
