New Notebooks: IBM Extends ThinkPad Brand With Its First Notebook PCs for Consumers - Product Announcement

Edge: Work-Group Computing Report, Oct 19, 1998

IBM Tuesday extended the ThinkPad brand of notebook PCs with the ThinkPad i Series, its first mobile computer line designed and priced exclusively for consumers. Starting at just $1,499, the affordable new ThinkPad i Series offer the signature black form factor and usability features that have made ThinkPads the most award-winning brand of notebook PCs in the industry.

IBM designed the new ThinkPad line based on a series of research studies on mobile computing among students, small business owners and families. The research confirmed the increasing dependence of consumers on mobile technology, as well as identified desirable product attributes and detailed purchasing trends. Based on this input, the new ThinkPad i Series line features: -- a sleek ergonomic design -- active matrix TFT displays across the line -- Instant Audio feature with external CD player controls -- a unique Internet Scroll Bar function -- debut of Altec Lansing SoundGuide speaker technology -- the industry's most comprehensive service and support package for notebook PC owners.

"We see a tremendous opportunity to bring the award-winning ThinkPad legacy to a whole new set of customers," said Mike Braun, General Manager, IBM Consumer Division. "Not only did our research identify a distinct home market for notebook PCs, it clearly showed that consumers are looking to mobile computing to help achieve their personal and professional goals."

ThinkPad Design and Usability Busy families, students and small business workers previously confined to a desktop PC can now enjoy the mobility provided by the new ThinkPad i Series. Ideal as a second or third PC for any room in the home, the sleek ThinkPad i Series design integrates the hard disk, CD-ROM and floppy drives and modem in an all-in-one unit that saves desktop space by eliminating the need for cabled peripherals.

Featuring razor-sharp active matrix TFT displays as large as 13.3-inches, the new models are powered by fast Intel Pentium II 266Mhz(1) or Pentium 266Mhz with MMX processors, NeoMagic graphics chips offering 128-bit Accelerated 3D Graphics, up to 2.5 MB video DRAM and integrated 56K modems(2).

"The ThinkPad heritage is built upon quality, innovation and a relentless focus on customer input," said Adalio Sanchez, general manager, IBM Mobile Computing. "When our research indicated most individual notebook buyers wished they had chosen a better display or processor, we incorporated active matrix TFT screens, Intel processors and aggressive pricing across the entire ThinkPad i Series line."

The exclusive ThinkPad TrackPoint pointing device with Internet Scroll Bar allows users to navigate through Web pages, spreadsheets or long documents as easily as pressing a button, eliminating the need to move the cursor to the edge of the screen. A set of four customizable ShortCut Keys provides instant access to the Internet and favorite programs. The ThinkPad i Series audio system features the first notebook speakers to incorporate Altec-Lansing SoundGuide speakers with Dynamic Equilization Circuit technology, which increases the bass at low sound levels. The speakers are mounted on the sides of the display to project the sound directly at the user and offer improved stereo separation.

In addition to being a traveling desktop, the ThinkPad i Series functions as an audio CD player. The Instant Audio feature allows audio CDs to be played for up to six hours when the system is turned off and closed. Volume, eject, track selection controls and an LCD to indicated the track being played are conveniently located on the front of the palmrest. This allows users to access CD functions such as play, fast forward and reverse without needing to open the display. An external audio jack even allows ThinkPad i Series models to be connected to external stereo speakers or headphones.

An Inside Pass to ThinkPad Support An innovative graphical interface called Access ThinkPad helps users new to mobile computing to navigate their way through ThinkPad i Series features and capabilities. Based on IBM research that identified the most frequently-asked questions of new users, this engaging pop-up application provides step-by-step instructions for such tasks as setting power management settings or sending a fax.

ThinkPad i Series owners can build a long-term relationship with IBM through a free one-year membership in the new ThinkPad i Series Owner Privileges Program. Members receive benefits such as toll-free, priority call-center treatment for service and support, a membership card to receive discounts and coupons for savings on additional IBM purchases at leading retailers, and access to a special Web site featuring technical tips and exclusive offers from companies that participate in the Owner Privileges program. Quarterly mailings and a monthly e-newsletter provide ThinkPad i Series owners with up-to-date news and information.

Recognizing the unique needs of first-time notebook PC users, IBM offers an wide variety of service and support options, available 24 hours a day(3). In addition to a one-year warranty and free help-center access, IBM offers "Update Connector," an innovative application that updates ThinkPad drivers, software and system enhancements over a phone line. In addition, IBM has specially-trained teams of ThinkPad technicians to support i Series customers.