VyePC are a UK company that are using the same mobile notebook device platforms as Kohjinsha (made by Inventec I think.) They already sell the S18, AMD-Geode based models and in about a weeks time, they will be launching the S37, an Intel A110 (800Mhz) version with US keyboard, touchscreen and Windows Vista Home Premium. With a 120GB drive, 1GB (user-upgradeable) RAM and an excellent keyboard and honestly, a class-leading screen. This could make a better alternative to the HTC Shift based on some of the specifications that came out in the last 24 hours.
The device has already been advertised through some UK resellers as a 600Mhz version but it looks like it will be an 800Mhz device when it becomes available. Vye have a US operation and will be bringing the S37 stateside for $1350. Availability is shown as 17th Sept on the U.S website.
If you look at the S37 microsite you’ll also see something quite interesting. A 3G module inserted into the CF slot. This is a component that a lot of people might be interested in. Its not as convenient as an internal module but if you’ve got a couple of PCs with CF or PCMCIA slots, this little extra might be worth a purchase.
Snave of the MyKohjinsha blog got some hands on recently and if all goes well I should take delivery of one on Monday or Tuesday next week for some further testing. I already know from my SH6 testing that the screen is just the best there is (outdoor readable, 1024×600, wonderful contrast and color) with the huge hard drive and 2GB RAM possibility I’m thinking that a lot of possible HTC Shift customers will be wooed by it. Battery life is up to 5 hours but bear in mind that it uses the extended battery as standard.
In the UK, dabs are listing it for 800 pounds (600Mhz version) and also list a VyePC backpack. No image unfortunately.
Further links and info available on the UMPCPortal product page.
My Kohjinsha SH6 mini-review with video.
Full VyePC specification sheet is also available. (PDF)
VyePC have an S37 mini website available and the S37 is also listed in their global website.
Credit: I think it was Rodfather that put me on to the Vyeusa site. Thanks!
