Back in January, TV maker VIZIO dropped the bomb that the company was getting into the PC game. It seemed like a bit of a gamble -- sort of like launching a new TV company. How'd that work out for them?
According to the IHS iSuppli Corporation Research Q2 2012 Market Tracker Report of Q1 2012, it worked out quite well. In fact, the research firm just ranked VIZIO with the number one LCD for that time period.
When it comes to computers, however, time will tell. VIZIO is certainly putting its best foot forward, with a trio of PC products. To launch the new category, the company will have a total of three Windows-based computer products: the VIZIO Thin + Light, the Notebook and the All-in-One PC.
The first thing consumers will notice about each of the new products is the sleek design. Also, all three feature the Windows 7 operating system, a NVIDIA Kepler-Class GeForce GPU, the latest Intel Core processors, and SRS Premium Sound HD audio. VIZIO also says that the company incorporated some of its HDTV background into the line, keeping things like contrast, image quality and viewing angles in mind.
The VIZIO All-in-One comes with a 24- or 27-inch 1080p display and its own subwoofer for 2.1 surround sound. Other features include a wireless keyboard, a wireless touchpad with multi-touch gesture support, and a remote. This desktop solution also has two HDMI inputs for connecting set-top boxes and game consoles. The VIZIO All-in-One is available now, starting at $898.
For something more portable, the VIZIO Notebook has a 15.6-inch 1080p display packed inside an aluminum construction. Boasting beveled edges and a slip-free, soft-touch underside, this machine has a slim profile and concealed passive heat venting to deliver a quiet operation. Like the All-in-One, the VIZIO Notebook also starts at $898.
Last in the line is the Thin + Light. As part of "a new class of Ultrabook devices inspired by Intel," this model promises a super-quick boot-up process and enough battery power to last all day. Choose between the 14-inch HD+ or 15.6-inch full HD display, each of which have a razor-thin design and HDMI outputs. Once again, VIZIO is starting these models at $898.
"PCs haven't always been made with design at the forefront. While customers want an elegant, multi-purpose device capable of executing tasks and flawlessly delivering entertainment, some PCs still look like mundane work machines," said Matt McRae, VIZIO's chief technology officer. "VIZIO is passionate about innovation, design and the user experience. We listened to consumers and created a line of PCs that deliver on productivity but are also uncompromisingly clean, stylish and sophisticated."
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