Over a year after it showcased a Windows-Android dual-boot Canvas LapTab at CES 2014, Micromax has finally brought the 2-in-1 device to India, though in a different version that was initially announced. Micromax has priced The Canvas LapTab at Rs 14,999. It will be available on Amazon.in starting May 6.
Micromax’s co-founder Vikas Jain said they were initially trying to launch a device that ran both Android and Windows. “However, due to individual corporate practices the partnership could not evolve. We remained convinced on the whole device and concept. So then we improved on it and here we are,” he told IndianExpress.com.
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The device will be upgradable to windows 10 when the new version is launched later this year. Initially, the LapTab will be available on Amazon, but later on it will be available in offline stores as well.
“We plan to work with various screen sizes for these devices from 10 to 15 inches,” said adding that for now Intel will be providing the processors.
“We are targeting people who’ve been shirking the decision to buy a laptop because of cost, etc. So students, professionals as well those who don’t want to use a dongle when they are on the move,” he added.
While the design has progressed since the first version, the new LapTab is purely Windows and does not have the dual-boot option. Powered by an Intel Atom processor, the device is basically an 10.1-inch tablet with a keyboard dock. Unlike the other affordable 2-in-1 computers in the market, this one has a solid keyboard instead of one that is made of fabric.
Trying to woo those who need to be within the Microsoft ecosystem even on the go, the device will come with a micro-SIM slot. Overall, the LapTab is not a heavy device and will be just a tad more heavy that those who use a lighter keyboard dock.
The volume and power keys are a bit unusual to look, but are easy to locate when you are unsighted. The magnetic dock protects the WXGA IPS panel and works as a stand when you want to use the well spaced out keyboard. The display is bright and clear and works well for the tiles. However, you have to be careful while carrying the two together as the tablet could slip out if you are not careful. The trackpad is small, but you will not need to use it much thanks to the full touch display.
Connectivity options include a micro-USB on the tablet side and a UBS port on the keyboard side. Interestingly, there are dual speakers on the sides of the tablets. Both front and rear cameras are 2MP and not much to write about. The 7700 mAh battery promises about 10 hours of battery life.
Specs: 10.1-inch WXGA IPS display | 1.8 GHz Intel Atom processor | Windows 8.1 (with free upgrade Windows 10) | 2GB RAM | 32GB ROM with 1TB cloud storage | 2MP front/rear cameras | 7,700 mAh battery
Stay tuned to this space for the complete review of Micromax Canvas LapTab.