Back in June, Microsoft unveiled its first tablet effort, the Microsoft Surface. The company actually unveiled two different versions of the Surface, a Wintel model based on Intel's Core i5 CPU, and an ARM-based Windows RT model. And it looks like Microsoft isn't the only company with plans to produce both Windows RT and regular Windows 8 slates. Word on the street is that Lenovo, which just official confirmed its Atom-based ThinkPad 2, is planning a Windows RT slate, too.
Rumor has it Lenovo is teaming up with Nvidia to build Windows RT tablets. The Wall Street Journal cites those oh-so-common "people familiar with the matter" that say Lenovo is working on a convertible notebook/tablet (a concept similar to the Yoga, pictured right) that runs on an Nvidia processor and the ARM version of Windows 8. Details on the device are scant, but it's thought Lenovo plans to release it at the same time as the ThinkPad 2, a Windows 8 slate based on an Intel CPU. Interestingly enough, the ThinkPad 2, with its full version of Windows 8, is not a convertible. Though it comes with a detachable keyboard, that's an optional accessory and must be purchased separately. Windows RT can only officially run software available through the Windows Store or included in Windows RT, and therefore offers a slightly slimmed down experience.
The ThinkPad 2 packs a 10-inch 1366 x 768 IPS HD display, an Atom processor, an 8-megapixel camera in the back and a 2-megapixel camera up front for video calling, micro-HDMI, NFC, a fingerprint reader, and a pen. There's also going to be optional 3G/4G and the obligatory dock, which adds a little more functionality and can be purchased along with tablet. In the ThinkPad 2's case, the dock will bring HDMI-out, an Ethernet port, and three USB ports. In addition to this dock, there's also a keyboard peripheral.
Windows 8 is due out October 26. Lenovo's Windows 8 offering are expected after that date.
