Lenovo introduced on Wednesday the eight inch Lenovo Miix2, a Windows 8.1 multi-mode device and the smaller, cheaper successor to the original Lenovo Miix launched during the summer. The device will be available later this month along with an optional stylus and detachable cover costing an extra $20. The cost of the tablet itself will be $299 for the 32 GB version, and $349 for the 64 GB version. The 128 GB model will not be offered in the States.
"Many users want the convenience of a smaller screen tablet, but do not want to lose the performance and convenience of a powerful, quad core Windows 8.1 device. With the Lenovo Miix2 8-inch, users can take advantage of a small, light form factor without sacrificing performance," said Bai Peng, vice president and general manager, notebook business unit, Lenovo Business Group. "The Lenovo Miix2 8-inch is a great example of how thoughtful design can deliver the best of both worlds."
According to a brief list of specs, the Miix2 will be powered by a quad-core Intel Atom Z3740 SoC clocked at 1.8 Ghz and 2 GB of LP-DDR3 memory. The screen will measure 8 inches, sporting a 1280 x 800 resolution, 178 degree viewing angles, 10-point touch input and a 16:10 aspect ratio. A 2MP camera will be mounted on the front and a 5MP camera on the back.
The tablet will also feature a microSD card slot allowing up to an additional 32 GB of storage, Wireless N and Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity, 3G-GPS3 connectivity in select countries, and a battery promising up to seven hours on a single charge. The tablet will weigh a mere 0.77 pounds and measure just 0.32 inches thin.
Lenovo's upcoming Miix2 tablet will ship with Microsoft Office Home & Student 2013 intact, allowing users to view, edit and manage their documents right out of the box. The optional cover will protect the screen when the tablet isn't in use, and serve as a stand for viewing content. The stylus will be ideal for sketching, drawing, taking notes or whatever else speeds up productivity.
Lenovo didn't specify where the tablet will be sold when available, but presumably through Lenovo's website and electronic chains like Best Buy.
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