
Posted on Monday, March 18 2013 @ 12:40 CET by Thomas De Maesschalck
Lenovo announced the ThinkPad T431s, a new thinner and lighter 13" ultrabook with a 1600 x 900 pixel resolution. The base configuration ships with an Intel Core i5-3337U 2.7GHz processor (i7 models also available), with integrated graphics, 4GB DDR3 (max 12GB) a 320GB 5400RPM HDD (SSD optional), 720p HD front webcam, Bluetooth 4.0, WiFi, WWAN, optional backlit keyboard, two USB 3.0 port, a 4-in-1 memory card reader, and either Windows 7 or 8. Set to be available in April, the system has a base price of $949.
Lenovo today announced its new ThinkPad, with
design enhancements inspired by the results of an extensive global research
project. The ThinkPad T431s is the thinnest T series ever featuring a sleek,
innovative trackpad, enhanced keyboard and refined aesthetics.
Lenovo's ThinkPad T431s Ultrabook features design enhancements inspired by the
results of an extensive global research project. The ThinkPad T431s is the
thinnest T series ever featuring a sleek, innovative trackpad, enhanced keyboard
and refined aesthetics. (Photo: Business Wire)
"We obsess over the pursuit of perfection - as evidenced by more than 20 years
of Lenovo ThinkPad design and engineering accolades. However, perfection cannot
be achieved without a key ingredient: customer insight," said Dilip Bhatia, vice
president and general manager, ThinkPad Business Unit. "The ThinkPad T431s is
the first device featuring Lenovo`s new design, which represents a comprehensive
examination of user experience and input."
From research to design
Extending beyond traditional customer interaction, Lenovo conducted extensive
research with NetGen, non-ThinkPad users and ThinkPad loyalists around the
world, to gather detailed feedback on ThinkPad design. Over nine months and in
multiple countries, researchers spent thousands of hours shadowing users in
their homes, workplaces and remote locations, observing user behavior and asking
questions. The results of this extensive research have directly contributed to
the new refined design, which include technological enhancements and innovative
upgrades including a new trackpad with click functionality and an incredibly
thin display bezel.
ThinkPad gets new look
The results of Lenovo`s research found that respondents prioritize simplicity
and modern elements when it comes to their technology. Lenovo designed the new
T431s with these priorities in mind to directly enrich the user experience:
Streamlined Interior: Lenovo updated the award-winning ThinkPad precision
keyboard by improving key placement while maintaining shortcuts for a
sleeker-looking keyboard, designing the display with a super thin bezel, and
debuting a new Graphite Black color.
Enhanced trackpad experience: The new ThinkPad trackpad is an evolution of the
TrackPoint and TouchPad featuring a new larger, smooth, responsive, multi-touch
glass surface that optimizes Windows 8 gestures, click functionality, and
integrates TrackPoint behavior to deliver a customized, improved experience for
all users.
Thinness, Durability, Reliability: The ThinkPad T431s, the thinnest and
lightest T series ever made and the first device incorporating the new design
elements, weighs just 3.6 pounds (1.63kg) and measures only 0.82 inches (20.6mm)
thin. The carbon fiber top cover and magnesium exterior continue ThinkPad`s
heritage of business-class rugged design and durability.
The T431s is powered by Intel 3rd generation Core processors with Turbo Boost,
features improved Intel HD Graphics, up to 12 GB of memory and additional HDD
and SSD storage options. The T431s has a 14-inch HD+ (1600 x 900) anti-glare
display, two USB 3.0 ports for fast data transfer. The T431s is also available
with Intel vPro for easy device management, supports ThinkPad docking, and
provides enhanced security that commercial customers require.
Pricing and Availability
The ThinkPad T431s will be available in April starting at approximately $949.