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Lenovo to deliver new rugged netbook for educational use

Teaser
New Intel / Lenovo Classmate+ brings lots of internal and aesthetic upgrades to its predecessor.

Lenovo is updating Intel’s Classmate PC this year with the Classmate+. The 10.1-inch netbook is expected to be an affordable computer for students in grade school and will include learning software and tools to aid classrooms.

The Classmate+ is designed with ruggedness in mind and has reportedly passed “rigorous testing” with its drop-resistant and spill-resistant exterior, claims the Intel press release. A carrying handle is also built-in, similar to many previous netbooks that were aimed towards schools.

Under the hood, the Classmate+ packs more power than what one would expect. This includes an Intel Atom N455 single-core processor, up to 2GB RAM, 32GB SSD, and Windows 7 Home Premium. The integrated 1.3MP webcam, card reader, 802.11n wireless, three USB 2.0 ports and VGA out are sure to be welcomed. Battery life will range from up to 3, 7, or 8.5 hours depending on battery size.

We have previously reported on the Classmate PC last year, but the new Classmate+ will receive the much needed aesthetic upgrades. A multi-touch screen would have been a great addition, but that might be asking too much for a budget student laptop.

Unfortunately, exact prices are not yet confirmed for the Classmate+, but they are expected to vary depending on region. The netbook should be available worldwide soon according to the press release below.

Source(s)

+ Show Press Release
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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2011 03 > Lenovo to deliver new rugged netbook for educational use
Allen Ngo, 2011-03-11 (Update: 2012-05-26)