Image Courtesy of Acer
Microsoft last week announced a host of hardware that takes advantage of the newly refined Windows 10 operating system. As a result other companies, like Acer, have decided to do the same thing. Acer recently announced two new computers, both of which are powered by Windows 10, at a press conference in Taipei. These two models are the Aspire R14 convertible notebook and the Aspire Z3-700 portable all-in-one PC.
According to a statement from Executive Vice President of Microsoft’s Windows and Devices Group Terry Myerson, “We worked closely with Acer to help ensure their devices would make the most of Windows 10.” Both devices are optimized to take full advantage of Windows 10 and the new functions that it brings, including Cortana, Continuum, and the new Microsoft Edge web browser.
In addition to that, both the Aspire R14 and Aspire Z3-700 also feature special additions from Acer, including enhanced digital signage processing for the devices’ dual microphones, which eliminates background noise and boosts speech accuracy, and Acer BluelightShield, which reduces strain on the eyes by lessening the screens’ blue-light emission.
Windows 10 was released back in July though these devices are the latest in the first wave of computers that were built specifically for the operating system. It’s no surprise that Microsoft is pushing the charge, announcing last week both the Surface Pro 4 and Surface Book.
The Aspire R14 notebook comes with a 14-inch screen, a hairline-brush metallic finish, a diamond-cut edge design, and a 360-degree dual torque hinge that allows you to switch between four different usage modes: tablet, laptop, tent, and display. Moreover, Windows 10 Continuum function makes switching between PC and tablet mode even easier, according to Acer.
The R14 weighs slightly more than Apple‘s 13-inch MacBook Pro, but that extra weight comes from a 6th Generation Intel Core processor, up to 8GB DDR3L system memory, and SSD storage. This device will be available at the end of the month with prices starting at $699 in the US and €799 in Europe. No Australia or UK pricing has been announced.
The Aspire Z3 700 all-in-one PC is a 17.3-inch device and will be available in Europe by the end of the year with a starting price of €599. It comes with a 5-hour battery life along with kickstands that allow it to be propped up and used more like a notebook. Intel Pentium and Celeron processors are both options along with up to 8GB of RAM. You can also get SSD or HDD storage options as well. The display comes with full 1920×1080 HD resolution and features a 10-point capacitive touchscreen, supporting input via a dedicated stylus.
Acer didn’t just debut PCs at the press conference. In addition to the Aspire R14 and Aspire Z3-700, the Taiwanese company also showed off its Liquid Jade Primo smartphone, which is a 5.5-inch device that is powered by the mobile version of Windows 10.
“With Windows 10, we can now deliver a unique and consistent experience across our comprehensive product portfolio, be it notebooks, desktops, tablets, or smartphones,” stated Corporate President and Chief Executive Officer Jason Chen.
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